I’d second or third the recommendation of the Bricasti M1. I’ve been using this DAC for years because of its detailed but organic sound. Just as importantly, Bricasti really stands behind their stuff and the reason I’ve had mine for 8 years is their upgrade path. In the time I’ve had it, Bricasti has offered upgrades from free software upgrades, to power supply, Roon, and even a processor swap. Some I did myself and some I sent the unit back for. When I did the Roon upgrade, they swapped the whole back panel to add ethernet inputs. I had the unit back, VA to MA, to VA in 2 days. Remarkable! Used M1s are commonly available in the OP’s price range. I bought mine used and Bricasti treats me the same as an original owner.
DAC for Aurender N200
For past 2 years I have been running Aurender N200 into Musical Fidelity M6s DAC. The DAC is built like a tank and very versatile, but I must connect via coax since Aurender clock is superior to DAC clock.
Well, I am ready to upgrade DAC for SQ reasons and presently inclining to PSAudio MkII for US mfr, good reviews, good service, current bargain price.
Q1: What DAC (<$8k) would you consider an optimal match for the N200?
Q2: N200 has very few outputs compared with other streamers in its price class.
I know Aurender has always inclined to USB. All else being equal, is USB the best output?