NEED A RECOMMENDATION FOR NEW CD/SACD PLAYER

boy, I am a big fan of esoteric. I have had my UX-3 since 2006. Did have a SACD reading issue a few years ago, Esoteric repaired for free and it has been flawless since. That being said. I did hear a Playback design, forget the model number but it was their top model that I also really liked. I am wondering if all of the different filtering choices and program options on the K-01 are a problem. One of the things I liked about the Playback was less unneeded options of adjustability as I recall.

Why not Oppo? Not only is it a great value but, the customer service is the best I've ever seen.

My McIntosh MVP-871 is in for repair for the second time this year. Repairs are being done by Magnolia Audio/Video since McIntosh refused to warranty it as I purchased it as a demo. I can only assume they refused to warranty it as they anticipate problems with these units. When playing an SACD, or DVD-Audio, the unit displays,"LOADING...LOADING...LOADING," then stops. I can't think of anything more frustrating than an expensive piece of audio equipment breaking down, except maybe breaking down twice. I would consider an Oppo from all the positive reviews I have read.

Just get it repaired with a nice letter explaining that you have had an "unusually" frequent issue with (specific problems-etc.). they may opt to replace it with a new unit or... make sure you are not introducing the unit to smoke, hair, dirty discs, etc. or rough handling, or excessive heat.
the higher the resolution of a component the more fussy it can get.

I also suggest you demo the Oppo 105 CD player. As noted above, the player offers many options, is a great value for the money, supports DSD and their customer service is terrific. See:

https://www.oppodigital.com/blu-ray-bdp-105/

Another more expensive option is the Ayre CX-7eMP CD player. I suggest you arrange for demo of the Ayre player also.