For me, the Crane Song Solaris combines the best of ultra-transparent pro DACs like Benchmark and Mytek with (for want of a better term) the "richer" sound of many audiophile DACs. With the possible exception of the Benchmark LA4, I haven't yet found a preamp that does not in some small way degrade its sound.
As regards ladder DACs, I've only had one experience which does not inspire me to try again. I had an MSB Diamond DAC IV+, maxed out with all the options except the network renderer which only became available after I sold it. Now this DAC, with its matching Diamond power supply, retailed for around US$40K. After I purchased it, it was tested, serviced and recalibrated not once, but twice, at the MSB factory. Whether direct-to-amp, as MSB recommends, or via a preamp (Boulder 1012, VTL TL-7.5), it had exceptional bass, but rolled off highs and a nothing-special soundstage. It never drew me into long listening sessions, unlike the same system with any number of (by comparison) budget DACs: MyTek Brooklyn with Mojo Audio power supply, MyTek Manhattan II, Universal Audio 2192, Antelope Audio Pure 2, Crane Song Solaris (among others).
