DAC choices: Exogal v. Schiit v Benchmark v. Denafrips

@celander: can you give a bit more info on what drew you to the decision on the Exogal? By chance was your dealer local so you could demo at home? I’d prefer to be able to listen at home before making a purchase which has my only option I’d be interested in being PS Audio, which local shop has all in stock. Guessing more than a local shop so curious if you were able to hear the others and if not how did you make your decision? Does the Exogal offer something the others don’t as far as features? Mind sharing the dealer you worked with and lastly what’s your thoughts on your purchase... or do you have it yet? I haven’t dragged home a PS Audio yet and I should but hoping or betting there’s something out there that is less that punches way above it price. Thanks

I ordered an Exogal Comet Plus computing DAC from my go to dealer. It has a lot of features that I like, besides its outstanding SQ.

I’ve got an Exogal Comet plus running direct into a pair of Quicksilver Mid Monos and I think it’s an outstanding combination.  The volume control via the Exogal app on an IPad with either Roon or the Aurender app makes for a very simple system that sounds great. Speakers are Audio Note AN E’s. 

I have the Benchmark DAC3B which is the same as the  L without analog  inputs or volume control. I find it to be just as the manufacturer claims a very neutral DAC which  is just what I was looking for. Not overy analytical  but with a clear presentation  a lot better than the DAC in my CD player or streamer. Not sure if this is much help for you but I have been very pleased with it. 

Thanks, Ian. 

I replaced my Rega DAC with the Denafrips Pontus late last year if you're interested.

I have found it to be a really nice, warm sounding DAC, with very balanced sound from top to bottom having plenty of tight bass and a very controlled (but not rolled off) treble with no bloat or harshness anywhere. A very organic and analogue sound compared to the Rega.

It certainly improved over the course of a few weeks use (>100 hours) to the stage where I am confident in saying that it is the best my all digital system has ever sounded.
I run an Antipodes DS streamer/server with FLAC ripped CDs and Tidal via Roon to the Pontus using a Curious USB cable and use the analogue outputs on the Pontus to various valve amps and on to my Klipschorns.
Apparently all of the Denafrips DACs have a similar family sound signature and I imagine the Venus is similar to the Pontus with even more of the same goodness.
I hope this helps.