Some DACs I am Considering-Any thoughts?

Lots of excellent DACs mentioned, but if you’re looking for the “magic” in music, go with the highest level Audio Note UK DAC (not AN Kit) you can afford. Most of these other DAC manufacturers didn’t even exist when Audio Note UK started making NOS DACs. While you’re looking for the right Audio Note UK DAC, get a Denafrips Ares II DAC for $800. Used ones sell like hot cakes (3-year Transferable warranty!); you’ll get most of your money back when you sell it, after getting your Audio Note UK DAC, or keep it as a backup or for a second system.

I owned 1 of the DACs on the list and sold it to keep the cheaper Gustard X26 Pro at $1500.

I had go with the Audio Note Kit DAC, had the 2.2, it was amazing, would have the 4.1 if I had the coin.
find a word

I had a Pontus II in my system for about six months and it obviously blows away the DAC in the Node 2i that I use as a streamer now only.  I don’t post much but I do research quite a bit in these forums. The responses about MDHT Orchid were always positive so I bought a second-hand one with the WE tube that was modified by a member here. Well I packed up the Pontus II sold after listening to the Orchid. I recently purchased the tube adapter so I could roll 6DJ8’s in it and it really takes it to another level. In my system the Orchid beat out the Pontus II/NOS head to head handedly. I was never going to use the other modes in the Pontus II and I liked what I read about R2R/NOS DAC’s. 

Cetla416 - what a great story. Now what would happen if you upgraded the fuse and power cord on the Orchid? You could probably be happy with the DAC for a long time.