Non Analytical Sounding DAC Upgrade- Budget $1,500 or less


After upgrading my speakers and turntable over the last 3 years it's time to get rid of my nearly 7-year old Beresford DAC. I originally started with a budget of $750 or less, but after researching possible options it seems like $1,500 might be more realistic. This will be in my dedicated 2 channel system. 80% listening through speakers and the rest through headphones. Analog is about 50% of listening, the 50% that is digital is mostly standard res streaming (via Roon/Tidal) or physical CD (using Oppo player as transport) with some higher res stuff tossed in. Music is mostly classic rock, prog, jazz, classical.

Downstream is NAD326 Integrated and Tekton Enzo XL speakers. I'll probably upgrade the amp in the next year. The speakers are long-term keepers.

I want something that gives a nice detailed sound-stage. Being a fan of good vinyl playback I'm not looking for an overly analytical sound. Because of that it seems like a R2R dac might be a better fit. I know there's lots of choices so hoping you can help to narrow the list down to a manageable number. Here's what's on the list so far:

  1. MHDT Orchid or Pagoda
  2. Denafrips Ares 2
  3. Musical Paradise MP-D2
  4. Soekris dac1541
I'm definitely open to other suggestions.

Thanks in advance!
ruleof72
I have an RME ADI-2 DAC FS. It sounds great. has a million ways you can adjust the sound. $1,150.00.
I have mhdt pagoda ! The sound was so natural ! I have compare it with my vinyl , they are sound very similar! I can listening for all day without fatigue!
I’d recommend contacting Wyred 4 Sound. They have some new old stock options available that don’t show on their website. I picked up a DAC2DSD-SE that was within your budget. 
So many great recommendations. I have heard the Chord, Benchmark, Black Ice, and MHDT Pagoda. All of them are great.

Here’s another you may want to look at: https://doge.audio/product/doge-7-tube-dac/

I bought mine for $1400 a year or so ago, but the trade war has bumped up the price a bit.

I love the unit. I think it rivals many DACs costing thousands.
The Sparkler Audio S504 DAC has a great analogue sound. Had it over a year and highly recommend it. Also just got the RME ADI-2 for my other system and that sounds great so far as well.