Does a new cd transport require break-in time?

@willemj - to be honest, I once thought as you did now, but that was 19 years ago.  The idea that cables do not make any difference and bit perfect is bitperfect and “it’s just data” and speakers/components do not require burn in after a few hours is generally a mindset for people who are just starting out in this hobbie.  After 19 plus years of listening and working with components, I completely disagree with pretty much everything you state.  I’m sure many people believe as you do.  However, over time you may start to realize that all these things we are talking about actually have merit (even though we cannot provide you measured “proof” that they exist).  You might get there, but then again you may never change your mind.  Keep an open mind!

If what jea48 suggests doesn’t fix anything, one thing you could do is connect the digital out from CXC to digital input of the Oppo and use Oppo as a “DAC”.  This would at least confirm that CXC is working properly.