Best DAC for around $2,500 or less

I prefer FPGA dacs.  if if you don’t need balanced connections and can deal with limited inputs  I would look seriously at the Chord Hugo 2.  Definitely a step up from the Qutest and you can attach the 2Go streamer.  Works as home or portable.  

I am very partial to my Benchmark DAC 2 HGC but I have not had the opportunity to compare it to any other DACs in this price range.

I suggest the Ayre CODEX DAC.  The CODEX DAC 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.  

The CODEX DAC has "A fully-balanced signal path throughout the analog circuitry provides an inherently clean and quiet backdrop for your music. The zero-feedback design maintains all of the pace and rhythm of your favorite artist, rendering your digital music as effortlessly as if it were live”.   Please see this link:

https://www.ayre.com/products/digital/codex/

You might be able to snag a used Lampizator Amber 3 in your price range. Otherwise, the Audio Mirror Tubadour is an excellent suggestion. I had them both, and they are very close in performance.

Chord qutest. Fantastic. Very analog sounding.