Upgrade Audio Aero Prima with mods?

I really liked the sound of the AA Prima when demoing, and recently acquired one here on A-gon. I hope it sounds great in my system as well. Here is my question: I purchased this unit hoping to use the analog out to replace my preamp, or at least see if I like a direct volume control. If it works, I will sell the preamp and put the money toward upgrading the Prima with mods, or possibly a better CDP (budget $2200 used).

Does anyone here have experience with an upgraded Prima? I could probably get a good upgrade package for around $1000 extra, and a used Capitole would cost me $2500 extra. Would the mods likely get close to the performance of the Capitole or a similiarly priced unit? I don't expect miracles, but it would be nice if it were 90-95% of the way there. I currently have an $1800 (retail) source in a $12K (retail) system, and I would like to get the front end up to "the point of diminishing returns". I just don't have $3500 (used price) to spend on a CDP. If I upgrade it, I would be keeping it for the forseeable future.