dCS Bartok Apex vs any similar priced DAC

you should also try the Wyred4Sound 10th anniversary dac it's about $4,500 US, one of the reviewers put it up against his VPI turntable with a $5,000 Japanese cartridge and he said that the 10th anniversary DAC sounded just as analog and it also comes with a 30-day trial period, on that review I decided to try it and I totally agree this is one of the most analog sounding DACs I've had in my system, no need to spend $21,000 or $80,000 on a DAC, that's ridiculous.

Several folks I know and myself drive ATC SCM50ASL(T) speakers directly with the Weiss DAC501. Most find the many DSP features useful. As far as I know, none of us are planning any further upgrades. One auditioned the T&A 200 and preferred the Weiss. Most folks out there that have made the comparison with Dave, prefer the Weiss.

If you are considering something as expensive as the Bartok Apex, also audition the new Weiss Helios which is in the same price range.

My Dream system 

your speakers and Playback Design MPS-8

Honestly, if you're just running an ATC, I don't see why there's a need for a top flight DAC

Is the Esoteric N-05XD worth a look too ?

The matching Esoteric G-05 Master Clock Generator can be used as an upgrade later on. That combo should be a killer ?