Wow, this has been an incredibly informative thread.
I also used a Sonore OpticalRendu for streaming to USB via fibre.
The 2 best DACs I have had are the Yggi+ Less is More and the modded GAN1. The Lumin X1 is also up there but I liked the Yggi+ better and it cost a ton less. The GAN1 is not really a DAC but the end result is pretty amazing, The stock version is not comparable to the modded one I have.
@yyzsantabarbara the opticalRendu and the Yggi+LIM combo being compared to the X1 got my attention - that’s really saying something from what I gather. There was another poster on a different thread that had made the move to the ultraRendu and the Gustard R26 with great results, but he was coming for an all-in-one NAD C658 (which I’m currently using) not an X1. Regardless, appreciate you and the OP sharing this experience. Definitely helps people navigate the wide variety of streamers, DACs, and flavors in the market.
Beyond the tax implications from a 401K loan, in addition to extending my time horizon, I’d definitely love to try an MHDT Orchid, Lab12 DAC1 Reference, Audio Mirror Tubadour (IV SE), Black Ice Audio Glass FX Tube DAC, Denafrips Pontus or Venus, and ultimately a T+A DAC 200. If I follow through with this probably-good decision, I’ll make sure to share my findings/experiences :)