Best DAC for around $10K new or used

A very diplomatic and well reasoned response, Ricred1!

I've had many, many dacs although I'm more into analog, the last several included the Lampi BIG 6 which was wonderful, very musical and you could change the sound based on changing rectifier tubes, then I listened to the Bricasti M1 and it's neutrality top to bottom won me over. Sold the BIG 6 and have never looked back. Have to say the new owner of the BIG 6 is also in sonic heaven so it's more about personnel preferences than anything else.

(Dealer disclaimer)

Bill_k,

At this level everything is so good, it really does come down to personal preference. I'm learning with my search for speakers that system context is so important. It really isn't how a component sounds, but how does it sound in your system. Unfortunately, most of us never get to hear a component in our own system.

"Unfortunately, most of us never get to hear a component in our own system."

How can you have a component in your system and not hear it?

Most of us never get to hear a component in our own system...meaning most don't get to evaluate a component in their own system prior to purchase. At least that has been my experience.