Have you heard LTA Aero, Lab12 Reference, Denafrips Pontus 15th?

Yes, I do not need MQA or DSD. I2s is not needed too.  

I prefer not to combine the DAC and preamp--so I'm not tied to each in one. 

LTA looks to have great service. That's great to hear firsthand too. 

Using a Lab 12 Dac 1 Reference for 2 years the new LTA Aero Dac was at the top of my upgrade list. After doing some research and following the “Six DAC Comparison” thread’s reviews I decided to pick up a used Mojo Mystique Evo B4B 21 Dac thinking it was low risk at $3000 (Msrp $9000+). I really liked the Lab 12 Tube DAC but this DAC is at another level. I am partial to tubes and the Mojo has that life-like live concert natural sound like tubes. Mojo DACs are excellent and I would consider adding them to your list.

Interesting @tksteingraber .  I will check it out nonetheless now. 

If you are looking in the $4K range, suggest checking out the Holo Audio May DAC.  Cost $4,200+ new depending on the build you choose.  End game for some.  

I'll be following this thread as I'm interested in the holo audio may KTE as of now,  originally it was the LTA Aero. I purchased a pagoda balanced from LTA and they do have excellent service I agree.
 

My Pagoda's usb socket shorted out and I had a local guy repair it, he says it's a design problem, idk. I just know it works again.  LTA no longer sells mhtd labs DAC's  but still responded with diagrams of the pcb and known chip to check for damage. Very helpful