The original rega planet is known to be a very warm sounding cd player, even a bit too rolled off for some folks so I would have my doubts that would have anything to do with it. I think that building the Foreplay would be a great option, Not only are they good preamps but its also a good feeling when you actually build your own gear. Sounds like you dont need any help at all on deciding where to go with your next upgrades

Im not sure if you keep your Stratos on 24/7 but if you do then you will want to consider adding a mute circuit to the foreplay so that you can power the preamp on and off without having any risk of damage to the amps or speakers when leaving the poweramp turned on.