Help choosing a DAC

@ricred1 I wish I could listen to them, unfortunately that is not an option for Denfrips and I have read so many reviews that are positive that I do want to consider them. I don't know what other options I have other than them. I agree room synergy plays a big role, but then doesn't that already decided for with the rest of your system? Thank you for your response.

@oddiofyl Thank you, it works well, I do love it.  When you say it is a sleeper, do you mean a keeper? My budget is $2500 I would love to consider used, matter of fact that would be my 1'st option. Thank you for the response.

@marco1 Thank you for your response, I do remember reding about the Merlin's about 10 or more years ago. Are they really as good as all the reviews suggested? I would love to terminate with the terminator, but unfortunately the road for me ends at Venus. I am leaning the Venus way as well, but just not sure if my system is high end enough for the big step up that Venus provides from Pontus. Most of the reviewers mention that before you go up the chain in the Denaphrips line to first upgrade other components to match the step up in performance. I am not sure if I will do this with my system as I am very happy where I am. Hence the Q.

It's a sleeper and a keeper..... great preamp.  

This is a nice summary of the Denafrips lineup

I have the Pontus II and Hermes DDC. It’s a great combination. The Hermes lowered the noise floor and opened up the soundstage, improved imaging and transients etc. It has an I2S connection too which is nice. $2500 would get you that combo used. Not having heard the Venus I would still hazard a guess that my setup is close to its level, although it likely sounds different. There are also other R2R DACs out there that folks seem to like such as the Gustard R26 or the HoloAudio May. If I were to replace what I have it would likely be with the Terminator or something similar. However, I am more than happy with my setup and plan on enjoying it for a very long time.