So...I have tested dozens of DACs ranging from $300 to $30K. What you really need when matching to an amp is to ensure the electrical properties (impedance, voltage, etc...) are a good match for the amplifier you are connecting to.
It does not matter how it measures or does not measure if the output of the DAC is not well aligned with the amplifier it is connecting too. A big advantage of a preamp is that it is going to alter the source signal and ensure it is well suited to the amp it is connected too, assuming that it is properly matched to your amp.
In general, DACs have a fairly high output level and tend to work best when directly connected to amplifiers that have a low level of sensitivity. You can have an amazing volume control, full preamp stage, etc... but if it is a poor match it will sound like crap.
The right way to judge whether a DAC is a good fit or not is to start with what amp you have and then what speakers. After that, in general, DACs with true preamp stages tend to outperform those with simple volume controls.
Finally, reviewers tend to always be positive about performance of units. You need to get what is driving positivity around a particular unit. For example, one DAC you have mentioned excels with the use of HQ Player. If you aren't going to use HQ Player, it is average. This helps eliminate buyers remorse.
I can't offer advice on what to buy. I can offer advice on what to audition but need to learn a lot more about your listening habits and rest of your system.