Looking for DAC suggestions

If he has a preamp to control volume already these are just a couple among many really good ones. A Metrum Octave(1100.00) for a richer warm and musical sound or a Moon 300d(1600.00) for a slightly lighter and sweet musical sound. Having said that you want it to match the sound of his other stereo pieces. You might tell us what he has in the way of stereo equipment and also some of his favorite music and if you know what he likes about it. Some individuals here can be of some real help. Have fun.

Do you have a sister? Oh wait, I'm married ...

Anyway, I'd say give Bill at Morningstar Audio a call and order an Eastern Electric DAC Plus with an upgraded tube and the DEXA discrete op-amps. I think total price for that setup is around $1300. That's a seriously high end DAC that will compliment his Mac well.

No he does not have a preamp to control volume. He needs a DAC with volume control.

This is a very informative website and the forum community is very good and helpful. Thank you all for your suggestions!

I had the Rega DAC. Very nice and well within your budget. I upgraded to the PS Audio PWD MKII which is much nicer but out of yor budget range. Look on AGon for one used. You would be giving him a great DAC for half your budget.

Dale