Jbm - Thanks for your feedback on both the Edge Signature pre-amp and the P-01, D-01 topic. It is very much appreciated!
Rtn1 - Thanks for your feedback; with the P-01 which I had contemplated back in early 2007 when I chose the P-03U, I would lose the ability to play DVD-Audio and the future ability to play DVD-V, running a long HDMI cable downstairs should I ever with to go back to a HT setup albeit this time, in a separate room. In the latter scenario, after having experienced the world-class video playback of the P-03U of which I and my ISF consultant have never found an equal, nothing else would measure up. This includes Blue-Ray or other 'high-rez' formats. I've done a number of side-by-side comparisons of video with the P03U and the other new offerings out there and frankly, there is no comparison both visually and ISF measurement-wise according to my ISF consultant.
For audio only though, I am still contemplating a trade-up to the mighty P01/D01 combo with another Audiogon member. From what Esoteric tells me, Redbook with the D-01s and SACD are dramatically better with the D-01 DACs; the P-01 will only sweeten the equation even more as you point out.
In the same timeline I am also contemplating moving the system 5-6 meters away to the side of the room to clear the rest of the sound stage (leaving only the amp out center-stage). In this scenario the cost of new 2m and 6m interconnects of the level I am testing may demand that I spread the money available across the system accordingly.
Thanks for everyone's feedback!