I'd only say modern dacs are generally higher resolution than older. Higher resolving powers is the general movement, more analog, natural flavor is the other, this not universal. My choice would go with most modern dac one can afford.
Within context of my not having heard any of dacs your speaking of, and based on my impressions from other's reviews, seems your making more of a lateral move than progressing. The Directstream is nice dac, not the greatest resolving, but I'd stick with it vs. others you mention.
Within context of my not having heard any of dacs your speaking of, and based on my impressions from other's reviews, seems your making more of a lateral move than progressing. The Directstream is nice dac, not the greatest resolving, but I'd stick with it vs. others you mention.