Addendum to

Vinyl is always my #1 source, but computer audio has definitely come a long
way. There are (finally) really nice sounding USB DACs in the 2K-3K range -- no
moving parts there, and it's really very enjoyable sonically, even if you have a
high-end analog rig. I've got a NAD M51 and Eximus DP-1, and can recommend
either.

Just ditch Mac digital sources and their crappy transports -- and let them know
that you find their cost/quality compromises unacceptable.

I have the same perspective as Bill(Grannyring). Depending on the quality of your CD player/system, CDs can sound marvelous.Some people are quick to write off Redbook CD but so much(as always) is determined by implementation.As a former hardcore analog advocate, yes records can sound superb when set up(and the vinyl quality)is good.There are bad sounding analog front ends as well.Both mediums can sound good or poor depending on what you have configured.If I couldn't get the organic sound and music's emotion from CD I wouldn't bother with it. Fortunately I do. Dan, I believe your fine system deserves a higher quality transport to get better sound quality from your CDs.

Not exactly ...not all CDPs be R.I.P in 50 years

Some of the ultra high-end CD/DAC brands (e.g. REGA ISIS) have two more identical unique matched serial number replacement parts ( including matched serial # new transports) set aside at REGA reserved only and specifically for every one made to ensure unit long-term longevity and service continuity.

That is assuming that Rega is still in business in 50 years.

Onkyo has a very interesting CD player, the C-7030. Some people hate it, more people love it. I suggest listening to see if it meets with your expectations. At its price (<$200 at Amazon.com) it's hard to pass.