What Front end for my System , Advice Please

Nice well thought out system Magoo. (Although I'm not sure about the Tact room correction unit.)

Perhaps you might consider a Sony SCD-1 cdp with a Richard Kern mod. It's silver with XLR outs and 2 pair of RCA outs, and it plays SACD as well. It's a good looking top-loader and is also built like a tank at 56 lbs..

I've not heard the Kern mod'ed version but others say it's quite nice. And you'll save yourself about $10k.

I have been very pleased with redbook and SACD performance of the SCD-1 in it's stock form.

Of course, if you're bent on parting with $15k, there's always the new Ed Meitner DAC and transport (I believe).

-IMO

Well Jeff I know it's not XLR OUT, but you could audition MF's new Tri-vista SACDP? I had a chance to listen to one 3 weeks ago, & although not impressed with their 324 upsampling dac a year ago, this player is FAB!!! Price Brand Spankin New @ under $6500, & it's SILVER TOO! Will make you feel like your listening to a $15000.00 front end. So Jeff, you could just donate the $8500.00 you saved to the "AUDIOBUGGED Component For Less Suggestion Fund"??? Or maybe Not??? Good Luck, with your Search.