Sorry but I got busy and hadn't checked here..............
Yes, the HOP1200 replacements have a horrible reputation. I once read that they should be ordered in batches of 5 in order to get a couple good ones. But I have no experience with them.
If you want to play your sacd's seems like you need a new player. I guess you have to decide that for yourself. The Marantz SACDN30 is now about the cheapest option.
Otherwise you can rip your sacd's and buy a dsd capable dac.