There is no way to avoid a "chip" altogether. Something has to do the processing. That being said, Chord and PS Audio use a combination of hardware and software in the decoding process. Chord chooses not to change OS through time, but PS Audio change OSs all the time which does have a distinct impact on the sound of the DAC. These would likely be the closest to what you are talking about as they are not dependant on ESS/Cirrus Logic/Wolfson/Burr Brown chips you are talking about though other DACs don't use them as well.
I personally had owned a PS Audio DSD with Bridge II for a long stretch and was quite happy with it. Only sold it when I became a Chord dealer and now I use different Chord products at different times. Both companies make superb products.
I personally had owned a PS Audio DSD with Bridge II for a long stretch and was quite happy with it. Only sold it when I became a Chord dealer and now I use different Chord products at different times. Both companies make superb products.