Mcintosh MVP871 vs Krell SACD

If you keep the Krell, once Krell upgrades your player to the MkIII I'm told you will have the same transport as the Evolution 505 player. This is a solid transport without the reliability issues of the transport in the Krell SACD. You will then have a great player imo.

I see your point with the players. I would never give that shop any more business. Another option would be to ship the player to Krell for the upgrade. It would be a hassle, but the work would be done right.