Searching for a dac that matches the Marantz

The new Denafrips Ares 2 and Sonnet Morpheus might be up your alley. Pure DACs not streamers, however.

Has the OP listened to the RME in their system to claim it’s more analytical than neutral? I own one and it’s not analytical unless maybe ones system is already lean or bright, meaning their source such as streamer, transport or spdif cable is likely the issue. Don’t be fooled by a few who have stated this as most say differently including myself, and question the others had one in their system and was set up properly. It’s a outstanding DAC that is very revealing but it’s not analytical or fatiguing. Hopefully you have listened to the RME in your system... if not you should. All the online retailers offer a refund if not happy. The RME doesn’t soften things so if that is what you’re looking for the it will disappoint unless you go into the EQ and mess with the various filters. What the RME is revealing, engaging, great bottom end, huge stage and great PRaT. I’d say it’s probably the best component in my system and definitely best bang for the buck if not.

If you don’t like the RME ADI-2 then you should upgrade to a better CD player.  That Marantz isn’t known for having a decent DAC.

I don’t say I don’t like the RME, I said I like the Marantz Dac. Have you even heard it @sfseay? Have you even read about it? I’ve never read one bad word about it, you? 

What’s your budget?