I think you all are missing the point. Ok. lets change the parameters as I actually have two systems.
In my first system I have Herron Line Stage, Herron Mono Blocks,
Denafrips Terminator DAC and an Aurender N100 H (USB not the Coaxial version) into Tetra 606 speakers. Cabling is Audio Sensibility Statement.
I am in the market for a CD transport and I want it to sound as good as my Aurender N100C. How far up the chain do I have to go to get sound that is equal or better than my Aurender?
The rest of the downstream in irrelevant to the question what transport equals or betters the Aurender within a reasonable price point.If you don't know you don't know. I am asking people that do know.
Very typical here and on other forums. I ask for an apple and you all tell me I need an orange. Somebody knows the answer and that is who I am waiting for.