I found the sound you get is only indicative of the technology used at the lowest levels. As sophistication of the implementation rises, the sound quality rises and any generalities disappear. For instance, at one time I owned a couple cheap DACs that used ESS chips. They had a similar sound… but high quality DACs using them sounded nothing like the inexpensive ones.
Why do I prefer R2R over Chip based DAC's?
I have had a couple of mid to low priced DAC's. Schiit Modi, Schiit multibit in a card. Topping E30. all inexpensive I know. Am I not spending enough money? I have heard a Schiit Bifrost, I did like it. I am currently using a Topping Octo with the Schiit Midgard for headphones. This has been my best combination to date for a all in under $1000 us. The Octo has good instrument separation and the soundstage is expansive. The Octo does not have that harsh semblance I can not stand. What would be my next upgrade?