Although the starting point using a "cheap Sony player" seems to be your weakest point, the upgrading of digital IC will let you know when you have heard all there is to hear from your transport, in the digital domain.
I can recommend using matching Mapleshade digital IC's (on either side of your Monarchy DIP), inexpensively excellent without being too revealing of transport inadequacies. Also, can point you toward a subsequent upgrade to match a more capable transport in your future: Auricle Audio Design Encore Signature digital IC.
Audiogon member Joemazzaglia sells these custom crafted digital IC's which truly excel at revealing everything your digital components can do, which is much more than you expect, if accustomed to most other IC choices. Priced too low to elicit budgetary shock and awe, which is a good thing.
I can recommend using matching Mapleshade digital IC's (on either side of your Monarchy DIP), inexpensively excellent without being too revealing of transport inadequacies. Also, can point you toward a subsequent upgrade to match a more capable transport in your future: Auricle Audio Design Encore Signature digital IC.
Audiogon member Joemazzaglia sells these custom crafted digital IC's which truly excel at revealing everything your digital components can do, which is much more than you expect, if accustomed to most other IC choices. Priced too low to elicit budgetary shock and awe, which is a good thing.