@kletter1mann - In my post above, I focused on DAC-Preamps that also have DRC (digital room compensation) and sub integration. Those features can be really helpful if you want extended, smooth bass in most rooms.
As others have said, many other DACs can be used as preamps if you don’t need DRC; if you do, the field is narrowed considerably. When I tried a Benchmark DAC3 in my system, I couldn’t complain about the unit per se, but the lack of DRC (compared to the Anthem) made the Benchmark a non-starter in my basement room. No amount of repositioning or acoustic treatment could get the same results in that room as all that PLUS a little DRC in the bass.