DAC diminishing returns


Looking for some experienced input on the diminishing return as you go up the the DAC ladder. I mostly stream music and occasionally listen to CDs.  Currently, I’m using a Schiit Bifrost Multibit DAC.  It’s connected to my Naim Nait 5Si and that drives Zu Omen ii speakers. In my limited experience, I have not heard any substantial differences when changing DACs.  I’m considering a Denafrips Pontus DAC.  Does the significantly higher cost justify what might be a marginal increase in sound quality?  Is buying a more expensive DAC for better sound just splitting hairs, and making you feel better about your system?  Are different DACs just different coloration of the sound?

I don’t want to be duped into buying something I don’t really need. Thanks.

dsfreeh

audphile1, When someone sends a product back after a trial period it's now a used item. The manufacturer has to sell it used or demo. That's the reason for the restocking fee, to cover the loss. Yes it's true, you will pay for a trial period, there are no free lunches. 

@charliee I get the reasons…was clarifying their return policy since the details were omitted and expressed my thoughts about it. 

@dsfreeh my thoughts about your question…

There are differences between DACs that’s obvious. One important aspect of “diminishing returns “ in my opinion is it is reached much sooner on a system that’s not up to the level to reveal the differences and make you appreciate your investment and not believe you were duped into buying a component the potential of which you just can’t realize because you have other bottlenecks in your system.

So basically my point is everything has to balance out. I have never heard a Schiit DAC or the Denafrips. With the denafrips figure anything goes wrong it will need to take a trip to China. That alone makes it a non-starter for my but that’s just my take on it. I would stick with something that has solid customer service and an authorized repair center in your country of residence. Just my $0.02

Just a quick comment. Schiit's home trial policy on their higher end products deducts a 5% charge if you return it.  Big difference between that figure and 15%.   As for shipping, I've bought several items from them and the most I've ever been charged for shipping is $36 for a Aegir amp.

@mlsstl I stand corrected. Schiit return policy restocking fee is between 5-15% depending on product and for Yiggy it is 5%. So actually yea not too terrible in this case.