Battle of the Older DAC

@incoming

Yes; the best option is to hear a dac in your room, especially if it is acoustically less than optimal. 

There are quite a few dealers who offer trial periods and return policies (without restocking fees). FYI, you will have to pay shipping both ways if you return.

PM me and I will provide a list.

Among these is TMR, who sell used as well as new.

Many thanks for the recommendations, and I always enjoy the discussions within this community.  Plenty of research ahead, which suits me just fine. Also plenty of envy for the options and service available in the US.

For those of us outside it is a bit more of a pot luck situation.

The Auralic is on loan from an enthusiast who sells new and second hand equipment as a side business. Haven't come across a retailer who provides trials of new kit, but also haven't specifically asked. Time to do that too.

Appreciate the direction folks.

@incoming

A quick Google search brings up names of audio clubs in N. Zealand:

Auckland Audio Society

Wellington Audio Club

Sound System Community NZ (Facebook)

Perhaps you could borrow a DAC or two...

Would folks advise a Gustard unit such as R26, considering OP's stated budget?

Some of the best DAC’s I’ve heard are based on older D/A chips and designs overall. If the design and implementation is solid and it leads to a natural, organic and "analogue" sound (my preference), it’s all that really matters. Carriers of that type of sound are Weiss DAC’s (like the DAC1, which is sonically very much akin to the one I use myself (a small Danish brand not known to many)). The Auralic DAC’s I’ve heard sit in a rather different sonic realm, but the important thing is: listen to some DAC items, don’t let the age of the D/A chip/design dictate your choice, and just go with the sound you prefer.