USB DAC/Preamp Suggestions $1k to $2k


Here are the rules:

1) Must have asynchronous USB.
2) Must have analog inputs.
3) Must have a remote.
4) I prefer analog volume control.

It will be paired with a Classe CA-101 amp and B&W CM1 speakers. Right now I am considering the Peachtree Audio NovaPre and the Grace Design m903 (though I will likely never use its headphone section). Other suggestions I should consider?
joakley
Ah, missed the part about the analong inputs. The Bel Canto DAC2.5 has those. Analog volume control will be very difficult to find, though. To me there's nothing wrong with a good digital attenuator. Bel Canto and Berkeley do it well from my experience.
Burson Audio. Not sure about remote and analog inputs, though. Neither do some of the others proposed...
I would second the Bel Canto DAC 3. I tried many DACs up to about $2k (used) and stayed with the Bel Canto.
Bel Canto DAC3 is full featured and sounds fantastic IMO. Very detailed, precise, and incisive, yet liquid and very musical with a touch of warmth.
MyTek Digital uses the latest and the most precise decoding technology. Check fullcompas.com for more info. You'll save around $350 vs. Grace Design m903.
Likely consider getting affordable headphones and give them a try to enjoy:-)