PS Audio Perfect Wave Memory Player and Direct Stream DAC.

[Karystrance]

I would match the CD player to the DAC, especially when the combination uses a jitter-reducing I2S connection. The CD player and amp don't really interact. I have the PerfectWave transport, but I was hesitant to replace my Delius DAC because I don't think the PS DAC can match it, regardless of connection. I am very satisfied with the transport through the XLR connection. It doesn't seem to have the panoramic spread that my old (dead) Verdi transport had (everything is between the outer edges of the speakers), but the resolution is excellent, the pace, if you believe in such things, really is toe-tapping, and the timbers are rich, full and accurate. The bass may actually be a bit more present, though I don't hear the same resolution there that I hear in the other instruments. Of course, I'm comparing units with a price difference of 8K.