Absolute top tier DAC for standard res Redbook CD

Guys, there is no doubt that some mods can elevate the performance a great deal. That said, it's not going to beat out any of the DAC's that are being discussed in the thread as he's looking for the best and not just good ones.  There are many really good DAC's 5k and below right now and they are there for every taste.  Again, a new thread for that would probably take off. Plenty of DIY's on the boards and it would be very interesting to talk about the mod and how it sounds vs XYand Z.  This just really isn't the thread for it is it?  

Dave and byang, please don't take this wrong, but I honestly come read the threads to get away from the political stuff.  I'm a retired Navy Commander and stay well versed on things, but this place shouldn't need to have to deal with that. I'm sure you guys understand and I hope you aren't made at me for bringing  it up.  I was emailed and messaged by two lurkers on this thread and it's only been within an hour or so of the back and forth.  Thanks

Dave, thanks for understanding.  Yes, you know my background, lol.  

BTW, I must share that when I was out to sea for 11 months at a time, I owned a pair of Stax Lambda Pro's with their portable, battery operated or plugged in amp that plugs into a 1/4" jack (the amp is for sale if anyone wants it, lol) and the first ever CD, Sony ES 501.  It was bliss at the time.  Bought the CD player at ships store (told my buddy who ran the shop to go get one, lol).  I bought every CD that was released for that whole cruise. I didn't have much time to listen, but I sooo appreciated having that to help me get through those years.  

Only one sea story.  In 1984 (march 10th I think it was) I was in my rack (about 10pm local time somewhere in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Iran).  I had just gotten off of watch (I am a surface warfare officer or ship driver) on the USS Kitty Hawk aircraft carrier and we ran over a Soviet Victor Class sub.  I was also the ships Repair Officer and was in charge of the repair efforts.  Just crazy.  

The guys now are so lucky as they can use their phones with a Mojo or Hugo2 and can's of their choice to get outstanding music.  I would have been able to lay down in my hidden hammock I installed on the fantail of the ship. I used to love sleeping out there if I didn't have the night watches.  I only got about 3 or 4 hours at a time so I wanted to max out what I had.  Even at night it was hot and humid out there, but the fresh air was great.  I used to use my cassette walkman out there, lol..WE have come a long way guys.