DAC under $1K

In my opinion, the BelCanto DAC2 (or even the DAC1) would be better than anything else you mention. The DAC2 can be found used for under $750 and the DAC1 for less than $500.
Both are most musical, analog sounding DACs I've ever heard that don't cost stupid money.

-Wendell

What sonics are you looking for? Different DACs gow quite in different direcion. (Take a look at the reference DAC thread for example) I find myself being very selective about sources in general.

Here is a list of DACs I considered recently for about $1k:

Benchmark DAC1
Lavry DA10
Wavelength Brick (USB only for PC audio)
Altmann Atraction
Monarch D24

After long back and forth I decided to get the Lavry and Wavelength Brick. Two very different flavors, but the two looked the most promising. I will be doing a comparison as soon as both are here. Ultimately I have been hoping to switch from my Audio Aero Prima CDP to a PC based system. The AA Prima will be a tough one to beat. Form my first impressions the Lavry is very good but quite different from my Prima. Also, it is unbelievable what differences transports make to the Lavry.

I would have loved to try the Altmann :)

Good luck with your search!

Rene

The New PS Audio Digital Link III is amazing. USB Input, Balanced Outputs, Upsampling and no op-amps. And can be had for under 1K.

An Apogee DA-1000E like mine.

Thanks for your suggestions. A few of these I never heard of, like the Lavry DA10, etc., will look into these. As far as sound, dynamic bass, transparent mids & smooth highs + analog sound, leaning towards the mellow side, definately nothing bright.