Esoteric K-03 or Luxman D-03x

OP -- is the application strictly limited to playing CDs, or do you think you will be getting into streaming later on? When I was shopping for an integrated amplifier, the dealer played music via the Luxman D-03X. To be honest, I wasn't impressed. The dealer suggested that the dac-only Luxman model, DA-06, although discontinued now was significantly better. I bought a used one on his recommendation and absolutely love it. I feel the sound signature lies somewhere in the middle ground between R2R and Delta Sigma DACs, i.e. retains the rich, smooth character of R2R, while not sacrificing details like some R2R dacs.

Either way, I agree with other posters to keep the transport and DAC separate.

Simaudio 260D is an excellent player and is $2000 new for transport only. It also has a DAC version. 

I'm getting more confused. I want a simple set-up but the more I investigate the options, being locked into a one-box unit has its' disadvantages as well as its' advantages. I've just always had the one-box option but it hasn't worked out too good so far. It appears that the transport being the mechanical part of the equation is the weakest link. Do others, like yourselves, run into the same issues with transports with a one box platform?  

I have the D-03X and have been very happy with it. I only play CD’s, don’t stream. MQA disc’s sound great on the player along with standard disc’s, very detailed with a big soundstage, slightly warm sounding. I had the D-05U prior to this and never had any issues with it.

I can not commit on the Luxman player. But i do have the KO 3x player and could not be happier. I purchased it right after they came out with the "x" changes.  Was looking at the KO 3 at the time. After doing some research and talking to the sales rep for Esoteric i went with the newer model at that time KO 3x. Big changes between the two No volume control on the newer model, they claimed removing the volume control cleaned up a lot of noise in the unit. They also add a new higher grade chip set. They also add a USB port on the rear so you could plug a computer direct and play music using the DAC in the newer unit. Have never has any problems with the unit. It is left on 24/7 unless i gone over night then it is unplugged from the power. I use it just about everyday for a couple hours each day.
All CD/SACD players will need some type of repair at some time. Laser ware out and so do drawer  mechanism.
I have talked to TAP about upgrading my Esoteric pre amp (CO 3x to the CO 3xs -cap and output board change) I never did follow through with it . But they where easy to talk to and willing to do the upgrade very quickly providing all the parts where in. I live in N. Ca. and TAPs is in S. Ca. about a 7 hour drive from me. If i dropped the unit off in the am they would have it ready to go the next day late afternoon.
I would talk to TAP about the KO 3 unit and see what a check up would cost or laser replacement. I would look for a newer model they do show up here on Audiogone. There is a Esoteric dealer that sells here on Audiogone out of Arizona. They maybe able to help you get into a newer player.
Good Luck