Yes the cd transport matter. If it is made proper it does not matter if it is a top loaded transport or not. Some of what i have had in My own system:
Oppo, Cambridge, Lyngdorf, Playstation, C.E.C TL5, Simaudio Moon Neo 260D,Jays Audio mk2, Denafrips Avatar, TASCAM CD-9010
Have had a trusted friend test the Pro-Ject rs2 t against the TASCAM CD-9010 Used as a transport only.
Now i have the TASCAM.
In My opinion you get a ok value for your money from the newest transport from Jays and Pro-Ject is better. Compared to what has been made the last 10 years of cd transports you get more than you Pay for with Theese 2 transports
The Discontinued Avatar transport from Denafrips was a good transport but service was.......
Just my opinion.
Regards