DAC upgrade


Let me start by saying I am a vinyl guy, but digital streaming, particularly if I can achieve the right sound has many advantages. My 2 channel equipment is as follows: 

Rogue RP-1 w/ NOS Brimar CV4003, LSA Warp 1, KEF R11’s, Rhythmic F12SE, Pro-ject 1Xpression w/Hana ML, Rega Aria, Bluesound Node, Marantz CD6007, Schiit Modi Multibit 2. Good to very good power, speaker, interconnect cables.  
My weakest link (I believe) is my DAC.

My desire is the best sounding DAC below $2,500, but certainly don’t mind spending less. i want the DAC to be as good as my best current component. I don’t need a DAC with preampliflication, don’t need balanced, don’t need headphones, however I would not eliminate a DAC with superior sound with those features. I do prefer a small form factor.  
My current top contenders are:

Chord Qutest, Schiit Yggy, RME ADI-2, Topping D90 III.

The Chord checks all my boxes… reviews, sound, form factor, no unneeded features, etc and don’t mind its quirky lights… but, looking your thoughts/ recommendations.  Thanks!

 

 

128x128signaforce

@marco1 

i am adding the Pontus II to the short list. Its sound signature sounds perfect, relaxed, warm, no harshness or cymbalism. Wish it wasn’t Chinese, as all else equal prefer US or European. Listening to my MM2 right now, definitely a little harsh.  
BTW, my room is probably bright, with 10 windows & a 75” TV between the speakers for my HT..

@facten 

Want dynamic while warm, no harshness or cymbalism, good soundstage. So resolving is out. 
@glennewdick 

Still #1

@jimmy2615 @ddafoe 

Thanks, looks good, but is too large a form factor. 
@hilde45 

Thanks, I will take a look.  

BTW, attached is a picture of my system. As you can see, I have very little room. My current DAC is on end next to my AVR. I have space between my pre and amp, but can’t be more than 4” tall. Thanks 

 

 

@signaforce, the Weiss 204/205 is:
Depth: 16.5 cm / 6.5 inches
Width: 10.5 cm / 4.2 inches
Height: 9.5 cm / 3.8 inches

It is a pretty small box.

 

 

I wouldn't swap my Pure Audio Lotus DAC 5 for any of the suggested DACs, most of which I have tried.