Lightning quick DYNAMIC amp in the under $1000 range

I would also caution don’t get sucked into the measure vs listen debate....

unless of course you can mainline music in past those Godgiven gizmos on the side of your head...

@gregdude 
 
Measurements pretty much line up with listening tests under double-blind conditions. Once you know what you are listening to, measurments are almost meaningless. If a DAC is high priced, looks expensive, and you think the brand is prestigious, that automatically gives it a boost over a cheap, plastic, Chi-Fi DAC; even if the internals are exactly the same.

A Bryston 3b or 4b or 3bst is in your price range. They should be at the top of your list. They don't get much credit on this forum. But google them. You will be very impressed. I speak from experience. 

@pkvintage : I agree! A Bryston 3B (100wpc) is hard to beat! I bought mine for $500 and a .5 preamp for another $350. Late 80's production, but sure sounds good! A great company!