Best Player or DAC: ceiling $3k


My primary system: Stax Omega Headphones with Stax 007 balanced tube headphone amp.I plan to use balanced interconnects. I listen to a wide variety of music. I am looking to buy a the best digital source without going much over $3000, though no need to go that high. I live in the hinterlands and cannot audition anything. Therefore, I am left to interpret the interpreters.I am unlikely to get into SACD,etc. My candidates on the used market:
-Kora Hermes II
-Balanced Audio Technology
-Audio Note Balanced 3.1
-Theta Gen V Balanced
-Meridian 508.24
-(New)- The Lector
Thanks
briansteffy
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Resolution Audio Opus 21 (new). Suggest a demo. trial from the manufacturer. I believe the most you're out for 30-days is $150.00. I'm not familar with the other units, but the Opus 21 lives up to its "resolution" moniker, and it can directly drive an amp.

Wadia 861 Basic (used)
I second Mrmb's input on the Opus 21. Have had one now for 3 weeks in my system. Completely beautiful sounding. IMO, much better than anything I've heard for twice the price.
Only thing that could need improvement is the remote, but that's no biggy.

Best, Michael Wolff
Try MSB TECH their Gold link III is good but the platium series is world class but that will be over $3000 say $5000
these are S.S.
Simple one, Resolution Audio Opus 21. If you have no local dealer, please drop me a line.....