Best used or new DAC under $3500

Nice Wig and glad you're enjoying it so much! Love that type of filterless minimalist design.

@wig  I'm looking at the BorderPatrol myself and will be interested in any further impressions you have!

I recently purchased a Border Patrol DAC SE with USB + SPDIF.  My wife's usual comment on my HiFi system changes -- "they both sound good".  She did not know that I had the BP and said -- "that cd sounds like vinyl".
 
To me, the BP moves digital toward an analog sound.  I am really enjoying this DAC.  

Hi Wig,
Congratulations on obtaining the Border Patrol SE (BP) DAC. As discussed in earlier posts I thought there was a very good possibility that you would be nappy with it due to its natural sonic character.

It is an effective communicator of music and allows a emotionally engaging connection with the music. It doesn’t error in the direction of "hyper detail" which most often results in an analytical or clinical hifi sound that isn’t musically involving. The BP will allow very enjoyable listening for hours and won’t fatigue your ears. 
Charles

Hi Wig,

Congratulations on your purchase!
I have owned Gary Dews (Border Patrol) amps. and I know he has some great inventions out there.  He puts a lot of merit in his power supplies and of course likes tubes both of which makes his modest price DAC sound so good along with the lack of upsampling.
For the money, I would feel very confident in your decision as a winner so good choice. I like your idea of keeping the cost down in the ever changing digital world.
If I were to try something myself I would seek out his DAC with a CEC TL3 transport. Gary voiced his dac with a CEC TL0 transport looking for a natural musical experience and he obviously found it. Gary is a great guy for sure so I am sure you will find enjoyment with your decision.

Enjoy your music,
Gwalt