[Badge]

I currently have a BDA-1 that I am using with a Macbook Pro (Audirvana+ software) via USB through a Wyred 4 Sound uLink USB - SPDIF converter.  I want to eventually upgrade to the BDA-3 and also get the BDA-2 to replace my Macbook Pro as a source.
So, at this time I can only purchase either the BDA-3 and continue to use my Macbook as a source, OR, I get the BDP-2 and for the time being continue to use my BDA-1.
So I am looking for any advice on which component would give me the biggest improvement.

[Tympani]

Would definitely go with the BDP-2. Getting the Mac out of the audio chain, and replacing it with a SOTA player, will sound wonderful even with the BDA-1 (which is no slouch as a DAC). You may never feel the need to upgrade your DAC once you've heard it fed by the BDP-2, unless you want more connectivity and DSD capability. And spend a little change for a nice AES/EBU connection, and a bit extra on decent good-value power cords like DH Labs' stuff. The BDA-3 will be waiting when you're ready 

[Badge]

Would definitely go with the BDP-2. Getting the Mac out of the audio chain, and replacing it with a SOTA player, will sound wonderful even with the BDA-1 (which is no slouch as a DAC). You may never feel the need to upgrade your DAC once you've heard it fed by the BDP-2, unless you want more connectivity and DSD capability. And spend a little change for a nice AES/EBU connection, and a bit extra on decent good-value power cords like DH Labs' stuff. The BDA-3 will be waiting when you're ready 

Thanks for the suggestion, that makes a lot of sense.

[Krutsch]

Just know what you are getting into; going from Audirvana+ to Manic Moose will be a significant change in user experience.

In my system, there is no comparison from a sound quality perspective: the BDP wins, but Manic Moose is a challenge.

[zoom25]

I'll vote for BDP-2. I also had to make a similar decision. Whether to upgrade from Dangerous Source to an end game DAC like BDA-2/3 or Dangerous Convert-2, or get the BDP player to use with my current DAC. Ended up getting BDP-1 and it definitely makes a positive difference in sound through AES-AES connection (better than coaxial output IMO - haven't tried BNC yet). Running everything uncompressed and Manic Moose works wonderfully.

I was also using Audirvana Plus and Amarra. I personally like Manic Moose a lot more in both sound and functionality over the other two software. MPad and MPod for iPod/iPad/iPhone make it really easy to navigate. It becomes intuitive after awhile. No more dealing with computer. You can also transfer files to the attached drive over network. Although for major overhauls, its best to transfer files via USB connection, especially if you can take advantage of a USB 3.0 hard drive and connection.

[CanadianMaestro]

The BDP-x is a no-brainer, if you're coming from Mac as source.

I use BDP-1 with Loony Loon, very happy with it.

Paired with my BDA-1.

BDA-1 + BDP-1 = OMG-1