I don't know what you might expect for a new $2000-$4000, but I just bought a DAC 1 PRE, and I'm amazed at how good it sounds. I'm old now, but I don't expect to need anything else as far as a DAC is concerned.
Best of luck in finding a better DAC.
Regards,
Dan
Best of luck in finding a better DAC.
Regards,
Dan