For nearfield listening: which of these towers?

Preludes are unique in the Silverline range of stuff...only one with aluminim/magnesium drivers, etc. They do sound better single wired, and are a great late night speaker...utterly worth it.

I almost pulled the trigger on those Preludes for sale. But, considering I'd also need to get an integrated amp, wires, and if the integrated does not have USB input (laptop is source), I'd also have to get a USD DAC. Too much gear, too much money. Especially if compared to this setup: laptop -> Halide USB HD DAC (small, no power cord, wires included) -> active monitors. Clean, simple, least gear. BUT, I will only do this if it sounds good. if not, I'l lhave to fall back on something like the Preludes or Ascend Sierra-1s in std 2-channel setup.

Back today to listen to active moitors again to make final decision: which one, or none.

The Halide is terrific

Concern about the Halide - locked into only one type input: USB. Wonder if something like the Schiit Bifrost Uber might be a better option. Certainly more types of inputs, but is sound quality up to par with Halide?

The Halide is great for what is does, but only does one thing, which is all I need for my desktop. At the prices you are looking at, there is fortunately/unfortunately very many speakers and DACs which are very good.