Many thanks everyone for the feedback.
@hilde45 - Yes indeed. the system that I am contemplating is based on his recommendations. 😊
@soix - Your recommendation of the Bel Canto C5i and NuForce IDA-8 were right up my alley as they relate to "Kallax-Fi" size gear which would be ideal as I have limited space on my desktop. One question though - The NuForce IDA-8 seems more current than the C5i which has been around for more than a decade. Ignoring age and price, would you be of the view that the C5i outstrips the IDA-8 in the sound department?
@yyzsantabarbara - Yes, thanks for the tip in relation to the drawbacks of placing the speakers on the desk. I intend to get around this issue by using ISO Acoustics Aperta desktop stands.
@dekay - Thanks for the suggestion of the Heed Elixir amplifier. Unfortunately it does not come with an on-board DAC. But then again, Heed's DAC (Abacus) combined with the Elixir amplifier stack well together and looks good. Question is does it sound as good as it looks? 🤔
Thanks again everyone!