TAG also uses of the shelf chipsets, the same as in Denon receivers, KRELL uses the same as in Onkyo receivers, I prefer Onkyo receivers... 
As for over priced, the Showcase costs the same as the AV32R DP, give or take a couple of 100 euros, its features are similar to TAG's, plus it has balanced outputs like the quite more expensive AV192R, class A circuitry, KREL has not stopped development, etc...
I read in Audio Asylum this guy that has ML CDP and prefers the sound using the Showcase's DACs, can't be that bad... 
But in the end what will matter most is how it works in my system, and that I will let you know as soon as I get it... :MILD: