I've been using Rega DAC-R for a while before I switched to W4S DAC2 then Hegel HD25. The Rega DAC-R is very musical just like the other Rega products. Since the digital world evolves so fast, the DAC's have become much affordable nowadays. I'd suggest you look into Ayre Codex and Nuprime DAC-10 (or10h). Both can be bought below $1,500 new and offer a great deal of sound for the buck. I compared my friend's Codex side by side with my HD25 and I was impressed by its performance.
Dac Suggestions for Rega System
Hi - I have a Rega Elex-R, Apollo-R, and Kef LS50's in my listening room. I was able to audition a Rega Dac-R and I really like what it did to the source overall, very musical while tightening up low-end smear and providing a clearer front-to-back depth. Just curious if there are other Dac's I should be looking at before buying the Rega Dac-R. Looking for a musical Dac, something not overly clinical since the Rega system isn't terribly forgiving with sub-par material. Thanks!