Upgrade from Schiit Bifrost 2?

With a $1500 budget, the main go to's seem to be the Denafrips Aries II, and the RME ADI-2.  As nicaboy says the Pontus II is a step up, but it's closer to $1800.

@mattmiller I'm not "hating" on the Liberty, it just wasn't for me.  It's very clinical and analytical, which some may like.  It does details well.  I prefer a more full bodied sound.

I have been doing a lot or research on a new dac for my self. Reading thread after thread and researching the manufactures. I have decided to go with a R2R design. Soekris is where I am leaning. They have a great reputation and I like his design. I know Schiit multi is a chip based R2R but I want a more traditional R2R design ladder. I do need a dac with xlr balanced outs that has limited my options in the $1000 range. Another key I am looking at is I do not want anything that is manufactured in china. Not a political statement but just don’t trust their quality control. 

Long time lurker here. My first post. I just want to note my experience with Schiit's customer service. My Bifrost 2 stopped working after several months. No power. I filled out the service form on their site and received an email with an RMA within minutes. The Bifrost arrived at Schiit on a Wednesday and was on its way back to me 2 days later. They replaced the transformer and analog board. This was less than a month ago. As always, YMMV, but I had a very positive experience. If you haven't already, you may want to try again using the form on the 'help & support' page.

I’ve been considering a new DAC myself. Does anyone have any experience with the Benchmark DAC3 B? Thanks.