Too many choices for R2R DACS--opinions appreciated


So I've decided to treat myself to a new DAC to celebrate a rather significant birthday coming up, and I'm very intrigued by the new generation of DACs employing R2R technology. Reviews have been unrelentingly positive, but I have way too many choices now, so I'd appreciate some opinions from any of you who may have had a chance to compare some of them. Price range: about $3K (with some slight headroom if the right DAC warrants it). I've looked at reviews for Audio-GD, Denafrips, Sonnet, and the new one from Jay's Audio (which doesn't yet seem to have any reviews that I can find). 

I'll be replacing a DAC that I actually really like, an Abbingdon Music Research DP-777 (not SE) which I've had for a few years now, but from what I read about the R2Rs, they appear to produce a sound I might like even better. 

Listening preferences: mostly classical, some folk, some Broadway, and I never  totally outgrew my taste for the good ol' rock music I grew up with. 

Rest of the system: Modwright KWI-200 integrated, Cambridge Audio CXU disc spinner, Ryan R610 speakers, Rel S2 sub. Cables: Audience & Cardas. (This all might be a bit TMI, but let's cover all the bases).

Your opinions gratefully received. Thanks!

 

cooper52

Following this discussion with interest.  The DAC market has changed so much in the last 2 years that I keep stopping myself from taking the plunge.  The problem is simply not being able to audition any in my area.  

I love my Aqua La Scala MKII Optologic DAC. It replaced an Auralic and was an immediate improvement to my system.

 

Just like any component they are a personal choice especially dacs , I had the Terminator, tried the terminator plus , AudioByte Hydra Vox , Rockna WaveDream SE , Holo Audio May KTE and just recently replaced the May dac with Merason Dac 1 , so far I am most satisfied with the Merason for its musicality over the others .

Im watching an impressive in depth review, including what's under the hood: titled Holo Spring 3 R2R DAC  - Punching Up! on You Tube