Best DAC’S $5k to $15k

Absolutely, listen to the Mola Mola. It is the most perfect sounding DAC I have had in my system, but not the most musical, IMO, and so I sold mine.

However, even if you decide you like something better, it is so good that hearing it in your system will be informative. I suggest playing with the output voltage to optimize for your gear/system and not using the onboard streamer in your audition. Also, some say the I2S input is best so try that if you can.

The Mola Mola Tambaqui is a good DAC, but won't be everyone's preference. I guess I had unrealistic expectations and returned it after a week.

So I posted first that I have the Chord DAVE and it is excellent. I have recently bought the Lampizator GG3 and it is indeed an upgrade. I’d describe the difference as big, forward, and room-filling. It does push your budget.

Jerry

I have tried many DACs over the years at various price points and I always end up coming back to Lampizator. There is just something about Lampi DACs. You can get a Baltic 4 in your budget, which will be hard to beat unless you spend a lot more money, especially if you are willing to do a little tube rolling, which isn't to say you need to spend a fortune to get great sound. I've got some fairly modest tubes in mine and it sounds amazing. I'll be keeping it unless or until I can upgrade to the Horizon.

Good luck!