The dac route is the best option, i had a 963 (now got a Shanling) and used the Perp Tech PP1/PP3a with it. Which took the CD up to a very high degree. Also an isolation stand helps. as all cheaper players rarely isolate adequatly. Improves the pictur on DVD as well. I have used the Tabard Tramp to great success, (still got it under my S/ling) but I don't know if it available in the States yet.
Cheers Derek
Cheers Derek