I agree Dekay, particularly re the bass of the Icon, but add that in a large room or one with a suspended wooden floor the enlarged bass of the Icon is a real bonus.
However, if you are still looking for an inexpensive DAC with HDCD capabilites, look at the MSB Link DAC. Although I agree with the previous posts the Link DAC is the only inexpensive DAC that I know of that is capable of playing HDCD.
While "inexpensive" is a relative concept, I'd suggest you look into a used EAD DAC, like the DPS 1000's, some of the later models had HDCD. These are often available used from $300-400. Otherwise, if you want new, I agree with the recommendations above that you should try the MSB Link Dacs or Cal Audio, both of which produce good quality for the budget conscious.
The CAL HDCD Icon Mark II Powerboss is a great stand alone player that can be purchased used in the $500 range. For $65.00 you can send it back to the factory for a cleaning and check of all outputs, money I believe well spent.
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