Wow, a lot of sincere advice given. I would agree with some but find that I think differently from several points in the previous responses. In my opinion,
In your price range, the Audiolab MDAC+ has gotten good reviews and (if you are in the USA) is available by mail order with return privileges. I have not heard it myself.
- There is nothing wrong with digital (at least nothing worse than is wrong with analog). The medium is fine for listening to music.
- The brand or type of chip in the device doesn't matter as much as the overall quality of engineering.
In your price range, the Audiolab MDAC+ has gotten good reviews and (if you are in the USA) is available by mail order with return privileges. I have not heard it myself.