Thoughts on using the DAC in my oppo 205 with a CD Transport.

Well, it seems my thinking has been flawed. I'm happy I decided to post about this, as I probably would have decided to try the CDT route.

So now having to shift gears, can you guys offer me thoughts on DAC's (would like to stay under $1500) and not opposed to buying used. The Gustard A26 sounds like a possibility, it has a nice assortment of inputs (I do want optical, coaxial, and USB) to keep most future options available.

I also saw the  BorderPatrol SE-i DAC looks nice; I like the fact it's made in the USA. But basically priced a bit high for me, also no optical input option.

Open to suggestions.

Thanks for all the input. I bought the oppo 205 when the news broke that oppo was ceasing production as I wanted the 4K Blu-Ray capabilities, it replaced the oppo 95 I had at the time. 

I am considering buying either the Benchmark DAC3 B, or the Denafrips Pontus -15-Dac. These two units are priced similarly, so cost is not a factor in buying decision. 

I'm having a hard time to decide which one would be better for me. I have generally come to feel that a more neutral to even a bit bright sound is better for me, as I've been able to tone down sound with combinations of outlets, power cords, and interconnects. Flip side when things are on the warm side, I've not been able to coax the delicate sounds (micro details) that make music so enjoyable out of the background. Essentially the problem I'm having with my current setup.

It seems many feel the Dentifrips is the way to go, and maybe it would be, but I hate buying without trying first. Maybe not apples to apples, but I once bought a pair of loudspeakers (highly regarded) without listening first and was not happy at all. They were way to warm, missing to much high frequency information. I have read a number of people saying the Denafrips Pontus -15-Dac is detailed, but then I also read some making it seem maybe a bit on the warm side? 

Anyone know which one would have a more holographic sound stage? Decisions, decisions.

After much research, I've decided to buy the Benchmark, it's supposed to be here Friday. I want to thank everyone who took the time to post their thoughts here, these forums are a great place to gather information from so many experienced and knowledgeable people.

I will post my thoughts after some time with the Benchmark.