My cd player Sony ES model ($600) sounds good but after hearing a Musical Fidelity X-Ray and A3 I realize that I need an upgrade.Sony ES sound Quality--> Imagine putting a thin bedsheet in front of your speakers Musical Fidelity--> take the bedsheet off

I thought about spending $400-$500 for a a DAC for the Sony ES or just buying a Cambridge audio or Musical Fidelity CD player.

Please help me in choosing the right route.
thank you