Have you heard LTA Aero, Lab12 Reference, Denafrips Pontus 15th?

Thank you both!

@dandion , that is great to hear and I had the Laiv on my list too, but I was thinking it may be more towards the analytical. But I haven't heard it. Sounds like the Aero is for me.  I was leaning that direction. Just didn't want to blow $4k right now!

I just pulled the trigger on the LTA.  I'll report back.  If it wows me, I'll leave well enough alone and move on. If not, I'll grab another and give it a try. 

As long as you can leave without MQA, DSD and no I2S input, and you already have a pre amp, you should be good.

I must admit LTA customer service is first class.

Yes, I do not need MQA or DSD. I2s is not needed too.  

I prefer not to combine the DAC and preamp--so I'm not tied to each in one. 

LTA looks to have great service. That's great to hear firsthand too. 

Using a Lab 12 Dac 1 Reference for 2 years the new LTA Aero Dac was at the top of my upgrade list. After doing some research and following the “Six DAC Comparison” thread’s reviews I decided to pick up a used Mojo Mystique Evo B4B 21 Dac thinking it was low risk at $3000 (Msrp $9000+). I really liked the Lab 12 Tube DAC but this DAC is at another level. I am partial to tubes and the Mojo has that life-like live concert natural sound like tubes. Mojo DACs are excellent and I would consider adding them to your list.