Opinions on Dacs...

Listen to the Parasound Z DAC and Schiit.

Then if you can find something better in your budget, buy it.

Best,
E

Check out borderpatrol  

I have the PSAUDIO Digital Link 3.  I wouldn’t describe it as bright.  Be aware that it’s usb input is not asynchronous (or at list mine isn’t, perhaps they updated it if they still sell it)

Schiit would be my choice. And, if possible a used Gungnir, you can have it converted to Multibit later. It's much better than the Bifrost (which I owned before the Gungy).
Bob

I have an original Ayre QB-9 and I love it.  The Schiit Iggy does not do DSD so keep that in mind.  The limitation of the original QB-9 is only a USB input.  The Ayre Codex also has a Toslink input which I can use with my Oppo CDP and it is compared very favorably with the new QB-9 DSD DAC.  So, personally, I am in the market for a used Codex.  Other DACs to consider are the Holo and Border Patrol.  A used QB-9 DAC would be a fine choice if you can live with only a USB input.