Upgrading to a stand alone DAC

Forgot to mention, don’t discount the importance of a digital cable and choose with care as it can make a big difference in how much you get out of a DAC. 

If you can find one used, the Denifrips Pontus ll should be in your price range. Over the last few years, I’ve upgraded everything in my system, except my Pontus ll.  Maybe some day, but I’m in no hurry.

All the best.

I know it's higher than your budget, but the new LAiV Harmony dac @$2700 direct is awesome. If you can make the stretch it would be worth it. Check their website and other written/video reviews. Had mine for a couple of months and it keeps getting better--couldn't ask for much more. Using it with an Aurender A10 streamer and my old prototype transport for 44.1 cds (original Phillips CDM9 pro mechanism)  I used to manufacture dacs in the 90's. Cheers.

Get the Schiit Bifrost and save a few bucks. It's maybe the best DAC for the money currently available. 

According to ASR you can't tell the difference in DACs and the $80 SMSL is better than many higher priced DACs.  I'll admit it's a good sounding DAC for only $80 but the real deal is PSAudio is selling refurbished DirectStream DACs for $1600