Seeking to upgrade from Weiss Dac 204

An R2R DAC might be what you’re looking for.  Denafrips, Lampizator, Schitt, and Holo Audio all have DACs well within your price range new.  I have a Denafrips Pontus II with a Hermes DDC and I like it very much and would likely sound much like what you’ve described you want.  Oddly enough, the song that just queued up as I’m writing this is Warm Sound by Zero 7.  I wouldn’t necessarily describe the sound of my DAC/DDC as warm, but certainly full/rich/smooth.  The Denafrips Terminator line would get you where you want I think.

I’d be looking at a Lampizator Atlantic TRP or Audio Mirror Tubadour V for tubes or Mojo Audio Mystique or Denafrips Terminator 15th for solid state.  Best of luck. 

LessLoss.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650218571-echos-end-dac-by-lessloss/

Have you considered the Weiss 501? Dealer discount might get to your number. 

How about something from Bricasti?

There's this 501 for 5K

The T+A DAC 200 will make a fantastic upgrade.

Check out the reviews on the Audio Note 2.1x Signature.  Just be aware- coax and AES inputs only. No USB. 

Have a look at Merason, either the Reuss or DAC1 MkII. It is a hybrid of R2R and DS. I have the Reuss and it checks a lot of boxes for me.

First off:  Like speakers, I wouldn't purchase a DAC that I haven't gotten a chance to audition first, either at your local high-end audio shop (you may even want to travel abroad to audition different units), or at home in your own audio system.  Second: you're shortchanging yourself by insisting on a $7500 budget for new only.  You should be more open to buying used in order to maximize your dollar and open up the certainty that you will be able to purchase a higher-end, higher performing DAC for your $7500 than you would for the same money new.  Happy listening.         

You have received some good suggestions, IMO.  

I agree with trying the Mojo Audio Mystique X SE (R2R DAC) or current equivalent, and the Merason DAC1 MkII (hybrid BB chips).  Mojo offers a 45-day trial so you can have an extended trial in your own home/system.  Both are musical, but different presentations.

I also agree with considering used gear in good shape from reputable sellers.  Manufacturers continue to update digital gear, and buyers continue to upgrade, so there could be solid savings on current models in good conditions.  Also, not much to go wrong with a DAC.