I have used various mid-priced CDPs including Classe, Jolida, Ah!, others. I am now feeding the PS Audio Digital Link III from the Jolida. I tried the Oppo 980 as a transport and it was missing something. The PSA DLIII is warm, detailed and very natural. I am using Signal Cable ICs and digital RCA. The DAC goes through a tubed pre-amp to Class D amps. I highly recommend using a stand-alone DAC for most people. I am sure the very high-end CDPs, such a Bryston, are even better, if you can afford them, but I have not heard them.
DAC improvement
Interested in hearing from those who have gone to a standalone DAC. Particularly those models from Benchmark. Would like info as to (1) what component you are using to feed the DAC (2) the component to which you have the output of the DAC connected (3) the type of connection (4) what setup you were using before going to the DAC, and (5) your take on the benefits experienced from the change.