Just about to pull the trigger on Pontus 15th ...

@lanx0003 Interesting findings.  If you had fun with the testing, it was worth it.  You could spend that much going out to dinner.

It's all about system synergy and personal preference. Hang in there until you find the right fit for you. 

@lanx0003 that's a bummer that the Udac didn't get you were you wanted to be. $125 maybe isn't completely worth the results you gathered but at least now you know. And I do agree with your point that maybe the Laiv will have better results in another system set up. 

I am very familiar with the MXN10. I bought one when they 1st came out & used it steady for a few months. My opinion was that it's internal DAC for the money was enjoyable. It gave me an enjoyable warmish tone but I also understand the flat-ish soundstage you speak of..with the internal dac. 

Playing around this weekend using my sabre & 15th the differences aren't as grand with the 15th & certain components. I wouldn't classify any of them as garbage components..just different from one another. Everything has an affect or makes a difference with the end results..as we already know. 

@sls883 @mattw73  I guess the problems lies in the pickiness I have imposed on the gears and different expectation of the term 'layering.'  In my book the term 'layering' includes the followings: 1) Depth - front-to-back placement of sounds; e.g., vocals close, drums farther back; 2) Height - perceived vertical location, e.g., cymbal/voice sounding higher than bass; 3) Width left / right placement across the soundstage; and 4) Separation - clarity and space between each instrument or sound source.

I could hear the distinct front-to-back sound level differences of instruments through the µDAC—e.g., on tracks from Modern Cool by Patricia Barber. Nevertheless, the edges of notes aren’t as well defined as with the D90, which results in a diminished perception of depth when compared side by side. The µDAC’s presentation tends to be fuzzier and coarser around the edges, filling the space between instruments and masking the sense of separation. 

I went back to some reviews and noticed that most of them described instrument separation and layering as distintive qualities and hence separate aspects.

I guess I just prefer the D90 Discrete’s presentation much more.

Just found a Gustard X26 III in 'very good' condition at a discounted price and fully refundable. This time, I’m taking a safer approach to auditioning. Like you said, paying over $100 in return penalties is questionably worthwhile.