Admittedly I dont have a ton of experience with CDPs, but, I think a Theta DSPro IIIa DAC(or newer Generation model) may be worth listening to. As a matter of fact all the Theta DACs, including the older ones(I and II), sound very good indeed. Lots of sparkle, slam, and dynamics. Be forwarned, they have very hot outputs, around 8 volts or better. Theta halved output and upgraded Caps on my unit for a paltry fee. Great guys to work with too. Factor in reasonable used prices and it may be just what you are looking for.