DAC upgrade

Like tcutter, I use the Playback MPD-8 DAC. Yes, it is expensive. But it is an amazingly revealing, high resolution, and eminently musical DAC. As you upgrade, consider the DAC the heart of your digital system. If you listen to ultra high resolution digital, your DAC should be comparable in quality to your turntable/tonearm/cartridge/phono stage combination. Think in those terms of equivalency as you consider the investment to be made in your DAC.

FWIW, here’s an article I wrote in 2022 for Positive Feedback describing my experience living the the MPD-8. My opinion of this piece of gear has not changed. If anything, I am more impressed by it.

Downsizing Journey Update: Four Years with the Playback Designs MPD-8

Good luck with your upgrade!

@deep_333 

Curious as to how many Wilson Benesch speakers you have listened to critically.  I have upgraded to my third pair and regard all of them as uncolored and accurate. No sizzle, boom or other anomalies with the best midrange this side of an electrostatic. Perhaps you perceive the lack of coloration as sterile. 

MPD-8: $23k at TMR

 https://tmraudio.com/fresh-arrivals/playback-designs-mpd-8-dac-d-a-converter/

Want a great DAC with an optional built-in streamer for a reasonable price?

Here is one option.

 To make it even better I would recommend using a pair of fiber media converters to connect it to your network.

If you want to transform your digital front-end into analog equivalent then you should seriously consider the Lampizator Horizon 360.  Pure magic!!!