Best DAC’S $5k to $15k

What do the numbers and their + and - signs represent?
 

numbers are prices (not up to date), “-“ I like, “*” I like a lot.

i keep lists of components I like including future upgrades/endgame targets.

If you already have a chord dac, just going up the chain with another chord dac isn't going to be a revelation/enlightening. Try a different type of dac for a different flavor.

You could add the Aavik D-280  (Price ~12k, a different type of dac/different technology) from AudioGroupDenmark to your audition list.

Mola Mola Tambaqui is also a strong candidate.

There is also a lot of trash/foolery in this price bracket (not even remotely worth the price)...Beware!

I highly recommend MOJO Audio. Ben has garnered 

multiple positive reviews/ awards. He is available by phone.

MOJO-AUDIO.COM. HE offers a trial period.

Definitely look at an ARC DAC 9. I compared mine (actually a CD9SE) with a $22K Berkeley Alpha Reference.. I was prepared to shell out the money for the Berkeley, but found the ARC ever so slightly (but importantly) more musical… while the Berkeley was a tiny ( itsy, bitsy) bit more detailed (tiny). I have had a couple other more expensive DACs in my system and the ARC bested them, particularly in terms of natural and musical, and equaled in terms of detail.

5.29 Sonnet Pasithea using IS2