Esoteric x series as transports

I have an X-03SE and a Berkeley Dac. I've used it as a transport, and its great. I think I prefer the x-03 by itself rather than through the berkeley (though the esoteric doesn't do hdcd but the berkeley does and the sound is absolutely stunning). I think it has more air and detail. It is a great transport but it will cost you alot of money to get a better dac thank whats inside already, plus, you need an excellent cable (I used the tara labs the one digidal).

I also feel you will increase performance more effectively by upgrading power cord, IC's (you gotta run it balanced for best sound), RCA caps for the unused, good isolation (I use Cera Pucs), line conditioner, etc. Cost a few grand but still cheaper than what you were thinking. And, if you don't already have - dedicated ac line.