Need a DAC Recommendation.

I just so hate the BS “ The new snatch catcher 9000 blows them all away for only $200.”  Please you get what you pay for. 

just a few comments based on earlier posts below

-- the border patrol dac uses its tube, a rectifier, in its power supply - it is not directly in the signal path, either as a driver of, or as a buffer for its analog outputs

-- you do get what you pay for, but some models do bring more value than others, esp. those with direct sales channels (denafrips vs ps audio, for instance) - or if you value features and lots of ancillary functions, the rme adi2 is terrific for its price, even if it is more on ’clean and lean’ side of the sonic palette with chord, and the better bitstream chi-fi dacs

-- as for denafrips, i had trouble with the entry level ares ii, it had an annoying sibilance (for me, a major no-no) that i could not cure with cables, input choices, nos/os settings etc etc... but stepping up to their next level pontus model did the trick... a very very good sounding dac (though 2x the ares price)

-- don’t overlook the wonderful ayre codex for under a grand used, if you are a headphone listener as well as standard in-room two channel... excellent sound, very balanced presentation

https://www.l7audiolab.com/f/measurements-of-gustard-x26-pro/

Gustard X26-pro test

vanson1, I see Gustard multitone performance is the best achievable, and that is the most important DAC perf-metric. third order is about -125dB, which is perfect. Third order harmonic increase over topping is because Gustard has discrete class-a analog signal path, which on my experience is better than regular OPAMP chip design.  

I adore my Doge Audio Tube DAC.  In my system and my room, it beat out lots of stuff and it's been too difficult to find a reasonably priced upgrade so it stays.  Due to demand, prices have gone up.  I think it you could get them delivered in 3-4 days for $1400 when I bought mine.  They might be edging upward now though.  

Be sure to research and look at the parts quality in the DACs.  The Doge has British caps throughout.  It's a holographic powerhouse.  Can't say enough good things about it.  

https://doge.audio/product/doge-7-tube-dac/

@yyzsantabarbara - Since you have the Gustard X26Pro, can you provide any insight on comments I've seen that the unit runs hot (temperature-wise)? I assume this unit would be left on all the time, but the heat issue makes me wary. (An analog guy in a digital world). TIA.
Bill Hart