Better R2R DAC Recommendation?

pontus is obvious next step up in the family

then there is the soekris 1541 or 2541

audio gd also makes some excellent well built cost effective r2r dacs

or mhdt units, with tube buffered output

all offer more ’analog-ness’ and control over unwanted sibilance over the ares 2

My point of reference is limited since I have not owned many DACs, but as a recent owner of a Pontus II DAC connected to a Lumin U1, I am very satisfied. This seems to also be the take from this reviewer on hifi-advice.

I have a Pontus II and a MHDT Orchid. I like them both.
This reviewer compares the Ares and Pontus II. 

There's a Holo Audio Spring KTE version listed on USAM within your budget.
(no affiliation)

From what I've read, the Spring gets you about 80% of the May DAC's sound quality. As a May owner, it has been the most significant upgrade in my system over the years.