Better R2R DAC Recommendation?

I have an excellent sounding MHDT Orchid which was modified, thus: 8 key resistors replaced and upgraded directly around the tube with a mix of Vishay Zfoils, Audio Note Tantalum non-magnetic and Shinkoh. Also replaced: output caps, changed to VH Audio Audio Vcap Odam 2.2uf. Total cost of DAC and then later mods: $1610

I have A/B'd it against the Denafrips you mention, and it sounds better. It competed decently with the Holo Audio May DAC, but the Holo was better. It is nearly $6k, however.

Second a MHDT.  I have the Stockholm II wonderful rich sound good bass

Yeah, if you like the sound of the Ares the Pontus ll is supposed to be a significant upgrade, so unless you’re looking for different sound characteristics that’s absolutely what I’d do. Best of luck.

It’s a pretty easy answer if you like the Aries2 a lot 

then the Pontus2 is the obvious answer similar house sound but much better detail bass and everything in between .  The Venus would be their best between all very close to the terminator 2 but at $3k 

for $2k the Pontus -2 almost impossible to beat ,it’s very well balanced 

I owned it the key is how good is your cables ,powercords  make a difference 

even more so Ethernet cable,  I uses uptone ether regen which truly cleans the noise on the digital signal and  usb , I like the AQ  Diamond , cables as well as Wireworld Platinum 8;cables .

Some good alternatives:  Holo Audio May, MHDT Orchid, Denefrips Pontus, etc....

But, you can sometimes find the Schitt Yggdrasil R2R Dac in your price range.  I really like the Yggy, which gets great reviews.  I think I bought mine for around $1900...  

I doubt I'd trade it for anything less than the Denefrips Terminator, or Audio Mirror Trubador...