Lots of great options and alternatives here.
eric_squires - Makes sense that if you are combining everything into one box, especially if that includes the DAC, that engineering and cost would make a big difference. Splitting everything apart into separates is interesting and flexible- especially being able to switch DACs. I bet separating things can also provide more SQ per dollar.
Bruce 19 - Agree on all you said re DIY! With the high efficiency speakers you can play with designs that amateurs can understand and modify. Have found the SET sound to be really amazing, especially for my vinyl set up. SS is another world, but Nelson Pass has lots of valuable instructional things and designs on his web site. I think even some two way bookshelf speakers like used Epos could work at lower volume? They have no crossover. Thanks a lot for those tips - this discussion is probably for a different thread. Enjoy!