First, if you want to make sure your new purchase delights you, and does not just trade off one set of weaknesses for another, then I always make sure the increase in investment is at least 2x my last.
@erik_squires I know where you are going but this isn’t the right metric ($$). A $500 DAC today will demolish a $1000 DAC from 5 years ago. Same for receivers. I agree that if you are upgrading swing for the fences, but you can’t just spend $ and expect an improvement that will lay waste to your previous setup.
OP, I would ask the guys at Van Alstine since they are on your list for a recommendation, they couldn't be nicer.