NEED HELP WITH DAC UPGRADE

As Erik posts above, I also suggest you look at the Ayre Codex DAC priced at $1,795. "The Codex has many design features not commonly found in a DAC that retails for $1,795. One is a pure analog, linear power supply instead of the more commonly found switching power supply.  Another is a custom Ayre developed Minimum Phase Filter that was developed from 4 months of listening tests with a Burr-Brown DAC chip.  A fully balanced signal path throughout the analog circuitry with zero feedback is also found in the Codex".  Please see these links:

https://www.ayre.com/codex.htm

https://www.ayre.com/codex_specs.htm

http://www.audiostream.com/content/ayre-acoustics-codex-usb-dac-headphone-amp-digital-preamp#6VhR3Vj....

I am ALSO considering the Ayre Codex DAC and will use its single optical input connection.  The Ayre Codex DAC has received great reviews and it is amazing this small DAC can sound so good.   I will be using it as a DAC only and will not need its volume controls. Several reviews have stated the Codex DAC is very musical.   In addition, its been suggested that the synergy between the Ayre Codex DAC (using balanced cables) and my Ayre AX-7e integrated amplifier is excellent.  I have been told the Codex sounds "best" when its balanced output connections are used.

Based on the reviews I have seen, I suggest you should research the Ayre Codex DAC.  If your ability to audition equipment is limited, please continue your research and do not rush your decision.    

you might try out the DAQX item before moving away from Bryston - this looks like nirvana to a lot of folks and makes good engineering sense besides

Randy - I can find no info on the DAQX. Who makes it?

I have the Mytek Manhatten and can confirm that the DAC makes a heck of an upgrade.

Opps! typo - should be DEQX

thread with little real info here:
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/is-deqx-a-game-changer

their site:
http://www.deqx.com/

some people have complained about the manual & setup - Google deqxpert bad reviews

maybe wait for the next version(?) - I think it might be the next place to toss $5k at in home audio, tho it is not clear why it cannot be done for $500 with some mass production...