Low Cost DACs

I’ve got a Meridian Director selling for $400.  It was a large difference from my built in DAC in my receiver. It’s amazing what a good DA converter can make the music sound like. 

www.audiosciencereview.com  
Measurements rather than golden ears

I have a Micromega MyDAC for my desktop, and it is very good value for the money. Can't compare to Schiit as I haven't heard any of their gear. The Cambridge DacMagic sounds warmish compared to the MyDAC which is about neutral. 

Yes, for what the MyDAC goes for used it is hard to beat. Linear power supply, USB, optical, coax inputs.  The Modi3 represents great value at it's cost new. 

That said, the use of a of a USB driven Modi2 which can be purchased used for~$50 would make for a real improvement over computer analog output.

I appreciate & respect anyone who takes the time to research audio components to the point of comparing graphs of actual signals, harmonics, etc..Despite my hearing not being what it was before many Rock concerts & loud motorcycles, I still rely on what I hear out of my speakers. No doubt, you could show me why one component is "way" better than the next. And I would believe you. But still, my ears are the ultimate judge and I trust them the most. Certainly this has resulted in much trial & error and more than one component for sale here or on eBay. My point; sometime it's easy to be unduly influenced by the latest stats or any "expert" review on the ultimate audio magazine.