You do not mention how much is too much. However, at around $1200-$1400 you can get a used Benchmark DAC2 HGC which is both an analog preamp and DAC. I owned it for about 5 years and it was great for the price. I upgraded to the DAC3 and it was not something I recommend if you already have a cheaper DAC2.
You say you do not use a DAC too much as a source. That is a shame since today you have almost every album created over the last 50+ years available to stream from various streaming sources. Spending a little coin on a DAC today will serve you well for a very long time.
I also suggest a used Sonore microRendu for about $500 (or less) to stream your music from your laptop to the microRendu and then, via USB cable, to your new DAC. I would say this Sonore microRendu is even more important that the DAC. That is save some money and get a cheaper DAC but get a microRendu to get your laptop’s music to the DAC. It will be a massive improvement. I know, because I used to stream directly from a PC into a DAC. I currently use a microRendu and will move up the line for my next system.
Edit. I just saw your post above about the $$ you want to spend. So forget the Benchmark DAC2., but I encourage you to research the microRendu. Tons of info on the web about this beautiful streaming device.
https://audiophilestyle.com/ca/bits-and-bytes/audiophile-style-products-of-the-decade-r865/
You say you do not use a DAC too much as a source. That is a shame since today you have almost every album created over the last 50+ years available to stream from various streaming sources. Spending a little coin on a DAC today will serve you well for a very long time.
I also suggest a used Sonore microRendu for about $500 (or less) to stream your music from your laptop to the microRendu and then, via USB cable, to your new DAC. I would say this Sonore microRendu is even more important that the DAC. That is save some money and get a cheaper DAC but get a microRendu to get your laptop’s music to the DAC. It will be a massive improvement. I know, because I used to stream directly from a PC into a DAC. I currently use a microRendu and will move up the line for my next system.
Edit. I just saw your post above about the $$ you want to spend. So forget the Benchmark DAC2., but I encourage you to research the microRendu. Tons of info on the web about this beautiful streaming device.
https://audiophilestyle.com/ca/bits-and-bytes/audiophile-style-products-of-the-decade-r865/