One more vote for Alvin from Vinshine audio. I was in the exact same predicament, and for a few bucks less on AliExpress. I talked to Alvin, or at least I emailed him, there’s just a trust factor there... I ended up buying my components from Alvin for a few more percentage points. Just came down to I didn't want to worry.
Vinshine/Alibaba..What to buy and where?
Is it wise to pay the extra money for a Denafrips ares 2 from Vinshine in Singapore vs getting it cheaper through Alibaba site? Don't want to pay more than I have to, but don't want to get ripped off or receive counterfeit cloned merchandise, etc.
Once I figure out where to buy, what's the best bang for the buck of the Denafrips ares 2, Ares2 12th edition, used chord qutest, RME ADI -2, etc.
I'm looking for a more musical style dac than ultra clinical revealing sound, and budget is in the $1,000 dollar range unless I can get 90% of that sound for $300 from Geshelli labs. Thoughts???