R2R next? Don't like ESS

Dip your toes very gently in to the world of R2R with a FIIO K11 $185

I can recommend the Holo Audio Cyan 2.  It’s designed to have one input because changing inputs is not as simple as pushing a button.  So if that works for you it sounds excellent, is very well built and costs about $1300 shipped.  It’s the best sounding DAC I’ve listened to for under $2K.  

Heh @iseland - yep, great comment.  That's the lesson I think.  I was spoiled with the tone board - it was my first dac for like $100 and it was surprisingly acceptable.  Moving around that same pricepoint - even doubling it - didn't seem to offer any more.

Seems Denafrips for the easy win and they're all of the place used.  Though, I must admit, I'm slightly intrigued with the tube dacs.  I will look into these more.  The Maverick audio was tube and I really enjoyed it.

I have been very satisfied with my Merason DAC. It uses a chip that combines the best of delta sigma and R2R conversion that results in a very analog sound. I had a Gumby and have tried the Yggy, Merason is my preference. 

If you can get the cash up go for the LTA, R to R with tubes…amazing Dac..

If you want burr brown get the New Ontech Dac07 from Denmark a steal at 2500…I love mine…