OP, I had a similar issue about 1.5 years ago. My trusty Pioneer PD 65 with level 3 Musical Concept mods died. I used it as a transport connected to my then Audio Alchemy DDP-1 + PS 5.
I also have an Oppo 105 that I use exclusively for SACD/DVD-As (it also has VVC) so I employed it while I went in search of. After many weeks I settled on a Marantz HD CD-1, which is built like a tank and quite handsome
While listening to it, I was scrolling Ebay and came across plug n play linear power modules ($200-$400). It is commonly known that the Oppo Achilles Heel is the power supply. The product page has a bunch of easy to follow photos. Im handy enough to make the swap at the same time I also upgraded the IEC wire loom that connects to the PS board and ground, also bypassing the variable voltage switch.
After having a good handle on the HD CD 1 as a transport, I listened through the Oppo using the VVC. Since hearing the upgraded 105, I don't use either my preamp or the HD CD 1
hth
I also have an Oppo 105 that I use exclusively for SACD/DVD-As (it also has VVC) so I employed it while I went in search of. After many weeks I settled on a Marantz HD CD-1, which is built like a tank and quite handsome
While listening to it, I was scrolling Ebay and came across plug n play linear power modules ($200-$400). It is commonly known that the Oppo Achilles Heel is the power supply. The product page has a bunch of easy to follow photos. Im handy enough to make the swap at the same time I also upgraded the IEC wire loom that connects to the PS board and ground, also bypassing the variable voltage switch.
After having a good handle on the HD CD 1 as a transport, I listened through the Oppo using the VVC. Since hearing the upgraded 105, I don't use either my preamp or the HD CD 1
hth