One of the best "deals" on cd players that I have seen is the parasound belt drive (cbd/2000) since you have a dac it works as a wonderful transport-the parasound was built by cec($$$) and you can find it used for about $750. I have compared it to the 508.24 and the 500 and felt it was at least the meridian's equal. As always try to home trial whatever you want to buy whenever possible. If YOU can't hear the difference why spend 2-3 times as much for a transport.
Good Luck
Good Luck