Laid back DAC under $800?

@andr3wd -

Thanks for that! Unfortunately, I can't find any place to buy it that will allow a return if I don't like it.  Ugh! Have you compared it to anything else? 

The D70 is an very good implementation of an AKM chip... way more laid back compared to ESS chips. 
If you want a more “soft“ DAC, I suggest you go Multibit ladder. Schiit is on the low end and great way to dip your toe in without a huge investment. Chord is really solid on the higher end... 

Chord is fpga not ladder. Its great and costs more. 

If you can find a Metrum Octave it'll fit the bill.  Great DAC very organic sound.

Whoops... my bad. You are correct. Chords are on the “soft” side of DACs though.