Ugh, what to do, what to do... DAC

My suggestion is to pick up that used Havana. I am using one with a SB Touch and it sounds great.

Shakey

I`d suggest looking into the Metrum Octave DAC,ultra competitive in this price range.

I think Mapman makes a very good point, and is asking a very insightful question.

You ask a good question, what to do? Mapman offers a good response, what are you looking for? Unfortunately there is little opportunity to audition most of these DACs unless you purchase. Maybe someone could start a DAC swap club with all the threads asking the same question as you, just thinking out loud:)

After purchasing 3 digital components over the past 9 months I personally WILL NOT purchase any future DACs or digital components new without the opportunity to audition first. If this isn't possible, purchase used and you will lose less in the event things don't pan out, some buy DACs as frequently as shoes, too many DACs, never too many shoes. Another thing to pay attention to is the fact that some of these DACs have non-transferable warranties to the 2nd owner. I feel this should be a major consideration in your choice if you can't listen first so check that as well. This fact will lessen the value on resale unless you are prepared to drop 250.00 or more on some. Some hold their value better, the MHDT Havana for instance. More cavaets than recommendations, there are tons of threads on that. The bottom line is I would recommend you do plenty of research on the ones that catch your fancy and audition first if possible, if not purchase used.

In lieu of more info on your goals, I might recommend any of the mhdt DACs I am familiar with. If your goal is more of a tubelike sound, then a Paradisea or Havana would fit the bill. If you are looking for more SS like noise floor, tightness and extension out of the box without dealing with tube rolling, then the mhdt Constantine if you can find one is a steal.