Theoretically, that should be the case. However, practical experience tells us otherwise. I'll leave it to the "digit-heads" to try and explain a reason. All I can say is that I've tried multiple different transports using the same DAC and they do sound different.
Several times I've tried to consolidate my system by using a quality DVD player as the transport for video and to feed an outboard DAC for 2-channel. I never could get it to match the performance of any of my other CD only transports.
I'm sure there are some good inexpensive transports out there, I just haven't heard one yet. There was a <$100 Aiwa changer a few years ago that got great press. Also, there was a <$20 used NEC multispin CD-rom drive was said to be very good.
Enjoy,
TIC
Several times I've tried to consolidate my system by using a quality DVD player as the transport for video and to feed an outboard DAC for 2-channel. I never could get it to match the performance of any of my other CD only transports.
I'm sure there are some good inexpensive transports out there, I just haven't heard one yet. There was a <$100 Aiwa changer a few years ago that got great press. Also, there was a <$20 used NEC multispin CD-rom drive was said to be very good.
Enjoy,
TIC