Bel Canto Dac 3.7 in 2018?

Given what you've said it would be helpful to know what your current system components are and what type of improvements you're after and what aspects of sound reproduction are most important to you.  This sounds like it could be more of a "system" type question rather than just a source question. 

But just FYI, I had both the BC DAC3 and DAC3 VB in my system on extended demo, and although the DAC3 was very good on its own the VBS was so superior it was no contest.  It was so good I'd happily add it to my system today, but I'd probably still try to audition something like a Metrum Hex or Pavane as well just to see if the newer R2R DACs sound any better.  Anyway...

In looking over various options given your situation I happened upon something that, if I were you, I'd seriously consider.  I know you're looking to do this slowly, but sometimes opportunity comes a knockin'.  Right now there are a couple Devialet D-Premier integrateds available in and around your price range.  This would give you a new integrated amp and DAC all in one, and all at reference-level performance capabilities.  Read the unanimously glowing reviews.  $18,500 unit you can get for about 5 grand, and it's upgradeable.  Jeff Fritz of Soundstage used a lower-powered Devialet model to drive his $185,000 Magico Q7s and found it to be the best he's ever heard in his room -- better than megabuck Boulder, Gryphon, Vitus, etc. amps.  Hard to see you being anything but floored by the performance level on offer here.  Best of luck. 

Yeah, @audioman58 has some really good points. Just to reiterate, I had the BC DAC3 and DAC3VB in my system for a long demo. The VBS1 is an absolute necessity if you’re getting a BC DAC -- IMHO. I’ve heard them both back to back in my system, and there is no comparison. I got to speak directly with John Stronczer about this, and he related that while in Paris he heard a battery-powered system that had sound qualities he wanted to bring to his products. IMO, he succeeded.

But, and this is a big but, I am very intrigued by the latest R2R NOS DACs on the market today. I’ll be very specific -- as good as the BC DAC3 VB was in my system, given what you’ve stated as your system preferences, I’d try a SW1X DAC. They offer a trial period, which, to me, is HUGE. Caution alert -- they do use tubes. But as it’s a DAC, they won’t need to be replaced very often. The reviews from owners are unanimously positive, and they seem to have great customer service. Unlike, unfortunately, Mytek.  Another DAC to explore would be the Metrum Pavane level 3 DAC.  If it's me, I go with the SW1X beacause the reviews are outstanding and he has the guts and confidence to offer a trial period.  

All that said, I highly doubt you'd be disappointed in the least by a BC DAC3 VB much less a 3.7 VB.  But again, I would encourage you to explore the SW1X given your sonic preferences.  Hope this helps, and best of luck in your search. 

I'm confused.  Do you have the DAC1.7 or 3.7?  You state in your equipment list that you have the 1.7, but in a later post you say you have the 3.7.  C'mon man.  Let's get this straight here!  If you have the 3.7 I'd absolutely look to upgrade to separate amp and preamp as the biggest absolute improvement overall to your system.  If you have the 1.7, that's a tougher call. 

BTW, great speakers -- modern-day classics IMHO -- and great choice in TWL power cords.  The maker went to Clarkson College -- our arch rival in division 1 hockey at St. Lawrence 10 miles down the road -- so I should by all rights hate him, but have to totally respect his work in power cords.  

If you have the 3.7, I'd absolutely look to separate amp and preamp as the bigger absolute benefit to your system.  Specifically, I'd ditch the PrimaLuna idea and contact Don Sachs about him building one of his SP14 preamps for you.  And while you're at it, talk to him about his new KT88 tube amp that may actually be able to drive your awesome Sapphires.  If he says yes, JUST DO THAT and be done with it!!!

But, here are some other options I'd consider for preamps.  I think @teajay here did a fantastic review of the new Linear Tube Audio preamp that seems more than compelling.  Also, Ralph's Atmasphere SP3 preamp is a relatively unheralded and outstanding preamp in its own right.  These three are at the top of my own personal list, so thought I'd throw them all out therefor your review.  Read the reviews.  They're all awesome and will likely kill your current integrated. 

Now to the amp.  You seem to want power, and I don't know the sensitivity or impedance characteristics of your speakers, but being monitors I have to assume they need some power.  I've had very limited experience with "digital" amps.  However, I heard Joseph Audio Pulsars driven by Bel Canto REF500s that sounded absolutely fantastic, so I'd certainly look there.  But, if you would also entertain a more traditional Class A/B amp, I'd take a serious look at this ridiculous value.  I own a McCormack DNA 0.5 with Steve's A Revisions and it's outstanding.  I think what you'll gain over your McIntosh is an expansion of soundstage depth and detail that will help your Sapphires sing at a new level. 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649511615-mccormack-dna125-with-mods-by-bob-backert-of-rhb/

Hope this helps, and please keep us posted in whatever you decide and how it works out. 

Nice system!  I had the DAC3 on demo in my system, which was very good BTW, and then got to hear the VBS version that took the DAC to another level of performance entirely, which frankly shocked me.  Sounds like you’re experiencing the same type thing albeit at a higher level.  Congrats!