Need help choosing a new DAC

I actually own a Benchmark DAC3, MHDT Balanced Pagoda, and Schitt Yggdrasil.

Each is in different systems: the Benchmark directly into a Parasound A23+, the Yggdrasil into a McIntosh MA252, and the Pagoda into a Conrad Johnson ET3SE then into a Pass XA30.8. However, I have traded the three DACs around using the various amps/preamps so I believe I can compare them to some degree.

The Benchmark is very neutral and detailed. Very solid performer in every way.

The Pagoda is almost as detailed as the Benchmark but more fluid. Music, especially vocals, has more depth and wonderful tonality. 

The Yggdrasil is a fine DAC but does not have the detail of the Benchmark or the great tonality of the Pagoda.

The MHDT Pagoda is easily my favorite DAC of the three.

@terrapin77 -2/26/77, Swing Auditorium. Epic show that kicks off a wonderful run of performances. 

If you enjoy detail and accuracy in your music I don’t think that you could do any better than demoing a Chord Qutest. I think it’s the best sounding DAC at its price point. And given your budget getting one either new or used would leave you room to purchase quality interconnects and other peripherals that might come in handy to compliment your system. 

Hey there @terrapin77.  Am very curious about your thoughts on your new DAC and how much difference the big step up makes.  I'm a fellow SMSL user, though a little beat down the line at the Sanskrit 10th mkII.  It's cheap but it's great, does DSD very well which you should look into for classic rock and jazz, plenty available.  Well, the Tubadour III SE does DSD to PCM conversion "on the fly", so I guess not native.  But your SMSL does!  IMO it spanks PCM up and down the street.

FYI there's only 4 Dead albums on SACD, done by MFSL: Workingman's Dead, American Beauty, Blues For Allah, and From the Mars Hotel.  The first 2 sound incredible like they do in any format. The last 2 not so much, and I much prefer live versions of those songs anyways.  I have the 24-192 versions of some '77-78 Betty Board stuff, love the Get Shown the Light box, but the hi-res is barely distinguishable from redbook.  Maybe I need a better DAC.  This is a great thread, I have my eye on the Denafrips Pontus II for a (far in the) future purchase.

+1  Pontus ll.