Upgrading to a stand alone DAC

I have a NAD C542 and Marantz CD6006 cd player in boxes. I got a black Friday deal on a Denon DCD-1700NE sacd player and it's a lot better than them. I know you asked about dacs, but it's something to consider.

I have a Gustard R26 dac that I'm using with an Innuos streamer via the USB input. I think it's a great dac and not crazy expensive. I had a SMSL VMV D1SE before it and I much preferred the Gustard.  

@baylinor

My Gustard R26 is anything but dark. Not all lacking in detail or clarity. Not in my setup, anyway. 

@baylinor 

I do have a tube preamp, but it's not real tubelike. It's a Linear Tube Audio MicroZOTL preamp. Solid state amp. 

I have selected cables, etc that work with the R26.

I think it comes down to personal preference. I think they are both good dacs.