Laid back DAC under $800?

@jtcf you mentioned wire. Do you notice much difference? What do you use? 

OP,  It might be wise to "borrow" or test a couple of different speakers to see if you respond differently to another option besides the Vifa Radiator Ring tweeter in those Onix.  Perhaps a silk dome or ribbon implemented like the Golden Ear? A free test is never a bad idea. 

Good idea. 

I see Black Ice (Jolida) has a DAC right at $800.......

I’ve got the Black Ice tube DAC. Love it. I would say it’s neutral but for sure isn’t harsh. I changed to early GE5751s to focus the mids and sounds lovely 

@andr3wd -

Thanks for that! Unfortunately, I can't find any place to buy it that will allow a return if I don't like it.  Ugh! Have you compared it to anything else?