I once combined an ARC CD-1 with this same MF DAC and it was a huge improvement over the Levinson 36 DAC it replaced, at least when combined with the ARC player. I've had Wadia and Shanling since, so I've not used an outboard DAC. I was happy with the MF at that time, though. I think I'd give that 8260 a strong listen before adding another DAC
