I can't think of any better DAC around $1000 than the Eastern Electric DAC Plus. It's also a small in size unit. Throw the Dexa discrete op-amps in there and you have a DAC that can compete at a MUCH higher price point.
Recommend DAC with optical outputs
I currently use the USB only Tranquility DAC. I'm thinking of getting an Apple TV which cannot accommodate the DAC. I'd appreciate recommendations for optical output DACS not to exceed $1000 new.Size is an issue as I have very little space for a large unit. Thank you in advance for your input.