dCS Bartok Apex vs any similar priced DAC

Hello @seadog137,  I have directly compared the Dave to my Tambaqui and easily chose the Tambaqui. but it does improve with a great preamp, and I agree wholeheartedly on the Makua w onboard Tambaqui.  The volume control on the Tambaqui alone is not the best (digital).  This makes the T+A 200 or the one above it interesting if I were starting again.  I am not familiar with the Bartok Apex direct to amps.  Also, the Tambaqui benefits from a good streamer, I have the Grimm MU1, and it is great with the stand alone Tambaqui or the Makua w Tambaqui.  I do not know if the Bartok Apex needs a separate streamer to excel.

I have the Dcs Bartok apex and have been very satisfied 

I upgraded my Bartok to Apex version and found the improvement significant 

I have Sonus Faber Il Cremonese speakers and the Bartok East Apex has been a very satisfying match

there are undoubtedly a lot of great choices in this price range- hard to go wrong -but I think you will be very satisfied with the Bartok Apex 

@OP, the N-05XD is really better used into a preamp. It is an absolutely top notch DAC and it is significantly improved by its matching clock.

The Apex Bartok is much better than the previous version and is a good choice in the application you are considering.

Personally, I would favour it over the CHORD and I am familiar with all three.

If you’re seeking a richly musical and thoroughly enjoyable experience, Aries Cerat offers exceptional options. With each model, you'll find significant enhancements in transparency and dynamics. However, if you prefer a more clinical and analytical presentation, DCS stands out as the ideal choice.

why do so many people on these types of threads simply "root" for whatever DAC brand they already own??....wow these guys really know their stuff, huh!!!