I can recommend a used monarchy 22a or 22b ....
.. however my recommendation is not on the basis of A/B comparisons with other DACs ... it is because ..
1) you can get it for $250 used.
2) it sounded significantly better than a stock Marantz CD67SE ... no slouch in itself.
Big bang for the buck. Made even better with the addition of the monarchy DIP for an extra $100.
I'm sure others will give you recommendations for more expensive DACs, which may be better than the Monarchy, if your budget permits. However I think the used Monarchys are good value for money.
.. however my recommendation is not on the basis of A/B comparisons with other DACs ... it is because ..
1) you can get it for $250 used.
2) it sounded significantly better than a stock Marantz CD67SE ... no slouch in itself.
Big bang for the buck. Made even better with the addition of the monarchy DIP for an extra $100.
I'm sure others will give you recommendations for more expensive DACs, which may be better than the Monarchy, if your budget permits. However I think the used Monarchys are good value for money.