Just a few thoughts:
1. You can get the Weiss DAC2 for $2000 less than the Minerva. They are internally identical. How much is the Minerva's fancy faceplate worth to you?
2. If you use a single ended source, then the Power DAC is about equal to the stock Platinum DAC. One difference is Power DAC is battery powered - supposed to be quieter than most power supplies. The Power DAC isn't fully balanced - it gets balanced output through opamps, which you should avoid. The Platinum DAC can be upgraded with Signature and Diamond DAC modules, as well as the 32x digital filter. These upgrades are rather expensive though.
I personally own a Power DAC Gold 4 without USB input. Can't compare to the Weiss, but I've also owned a North Star M192 MK. I at the same time. The Power DAC is extremely smooth and presentation is very laid back. Your other components will need to compensate for the slight lack of bass impact. In return you get incredible purity across the spectrum, and the most natural, unfatigued treble in its class.
1. You can get the Weiss DAC2 for $2000 less than the Minerva. They are internally identical. How much is the Minerva's fancy faceplate worth to you?
2. If you use a single ended source, then the Power DAC is about equal to the stock Platinum DAC. One difference is Power DAC is battery powered - supposed to be quieter than most power supplies. The Power DAC isn't fully balanced - it gets balanced output through opamps, which you should avoid. The Platinum DAC can be upgraded with Signature and Diamond DAC modules, as well as the 32x digital filter. These upgrades are rather expensive though.
I personally own a Power DAC Gold 4 without USB input. Can't compare to the Weiss, but I've also owned a North Star M192 MK. I at the same time. The Power DAC is extremely smooth and presentation is very laid back. Your other components will need to compensate for the slight lack of bass impact. In return you get incredible purity across the spectrum, and the most natural, unfatigued treble in its class.