Suggestions for Balanced DAC Upgrade?


As I proceed through my "8-year-upgrade", I'm in a quandry with respect to upgrading my DAC. I would appreciate any suggestions those of you still running separates would be willing to provide...

My system:
Theta Data Basic, cleaned up with a Genesis Time Lens
Theta Progeny A (nice and within budget in 1995, but currently weakest link)
Pass X1/X250
Thiel 2.4
Az Matrix Ref II, Kimber Orchid, Thetalinque

My desire is to complete the conversion to an all-balanced system. I listen exclusively to conventional CDs, and my tastes run all over the map. I enjoy a dynamic, clean and accurate sound.

With the DAC upgrade, I'd mostly like to achieve less treble hash and greater definition of individual instruments in complex musical passages. I also want to improve low frequency definition...

I've tried to bone up on Stereophile/TAS writeups, etc.., but don't find them too useful (everything's always "wonderful"). I realize the technology continues to advance quickly, so I'd probably get better results with a newer/less expensive unit than an older/more expensive one.

My kneejerk reaction is to pursue a Gen Va, but are there any other solid candidates in the $1000-2000 range? I thought about the Bel Canto, but it's single-ended only.

Thanks in advance for your help! I'm going to try to audition a couple over the next few weeks in the L.A. area, if possible...
bakeinca
Find a local dealer and audition the Audio Note Dac 2.1 or 3.1 Balanced. Incredible
Sorry I didn't read about your price point. Might try to find a used one. Next time I will read more carefully.
Timo:

I appreciate the Muse suggestions...

You've actually got me thinking about a 296, or even a One Ninety Two.

Would either be a good choice (relative to a Gen Va) accepting the Genesis output via xlr? Or, do you really need to embrace the I2S to realize substantial improvement?

Checking various related threads, you seem to be quite knowledgable regarding various Muse combinations...

It's difficult to find much info on Muse via Google...

Thanks to all for your thoughts!