New to audio. Is there a good DAC that can produce layers of sound?


One of the Youtube audio reviews I watch as a beginner in audio system is Darko

He says during the Chord Qutest review that this DAC can produce layers of sound which is great

I kinda understand what he says because from my very first audio setup, which I returned due to awful sound of music this week, I could still feel some layers, maybe 2, from Post Malone’s song Deja Vu. Only, there were 2 clear layer, from 16bit 44.1 kHz signals from Sonos Amp, one very far back near the speaker and one right next to my ear. I thought it was amazing though. The speaker was SVS ultra bookshelf.

Now those are all returned to the seller, and I am looking for something more clear, musical, and awesome. So, the Qutest is one of the DACs I want to try.

But, if there is any DAC you, as a more experience audiophiles, would like to recommend to me for having great sound effect, could you please list some names? with brief description of the sound?

The price range I am looking for is about $1.5K or less. I prefer less. Used items included.

I am on a journey to setup an enjoyable sound system for myself and would like to see what others like.

Thanks!

K
yggy1
Not long ago, I purchased a Benchmark DAC 1 PRE. I was flabbergasted at how it sounds. They don't sell cheap, but there's a reason for that, they're that good. I got mine for $500, in perfect shape, and as far as I'm concerned, it's all the DAC I'll ever need, also the headphone amp is just killer good.

Best of luck,
Dan
Wow...Just took a look at the DAC1 and its used price...it seems like absolute steal...especially for a beginner like myself. Thanks a lot. My question is, are they going to hook up well with more updated amps and streamers? due to somewhat outdated drivers, inputs, and outputs, given it was release almost 10yrs ago. 
Chord qutest is the one to get at your price point.  Look at "the music room" website.  They have some good deals.  I bought a hugo 2 used from them and they were great to deal with.  They're an authorized chord dealer also.
You need a nos r2r tube dac like someone had already stated. It’ll give you a nice, airy, clear presentation. I’ve got a real old grant fidelity tube dac 11 and it still holds up. I’ve got my eyes on an audio mirror next. 
R2Rs do not measure well at all. Do what Roberjerman says and get Topping D50. Completely transparent. It will give you EXACTLY what's on the recording