Lampizator. I've owned, listened to, and interviewed many DAC owners and reviewers in the past few years, always eager to find something new or improved. The Lampizators are still brilliant. I own an Atlantic 3, but the highly popular Baltic would come close to your budget. Newer Lampi models have significant improvements that keep them relevant. Have not listened to one or two of the other highly regarded, such as the T+A 200 or the Gustard R26. I would think any of these would be solid end-game DACs. Some do fall outside your budget.
Dac that has tone and timing?
I’m hoping to see if anyone has experience and has found a dac that nails both a "meat on the bones" presentation that also preserves the leading edges of notes and maintains pace, rhythm, and timing. In general, it seems that tonally dense dacs tend to have rounded-off leading edges of notes, and dacs with great PRAT have a leaner tonality. I’d love it under $5k but willing to spend more if necessary.