DAC recommendations under $7K

Hi Signa.  Your system is really coming along. I bet it sounds amazing.  You and I have some overlap in our systems.  I also use an N150 and the BHK preamp, and like you I was DAC shopping.  I was using the Benchmark DAC, which I really enjoyed, but I wanted to try a different DAC approach, such as an R2R topology.  Like you, I looked and looked and read and read - that is part of the fun.  Some DACs were too much one way or the other with detail and warmth, accuracy and measurements.  I ended up getting a Denefrips Venus 15 to try, knowing that I could sell it if I did not like it.  It is well reviewed and is for the most part the prior year Terminator, which was well reviewed.  So far, I am really enjoying the voicing of the Venus.  I plan on keeping the Benchmark for my headphone system because it is amazing, plus, nice to have the option to swap it back in.  Todd and TEK Audio Specialist was very helpful and great to work with.  

The Venus is full sized, so does not meet that requirement.  However, I believe they have smaller options and 2) in the past I adjusted my set up to fit in a piece I want.  I will swap out or add a rack to improve the sound before I would force myself into a form factor that is not my first choice.  In fact, I have to do a re-arrange of my current system due to the larger size of the Venus.  

Please keep us updated.  

@danmar123 

I've had my LTA Aero now for about 3 months and could not be happier. My system was sounding great with just using the built in Bluesound DAC, but instantly grew the soundstage and textures with the Aero in place. Great company, they offered to send me these Tung-sol Black Glass Round Plate tubes for me to try over the standard tubes they offer and WOW! So smooth and good. I find myself never wanting to turn the music off. My kids have had to tell me it's time for them to sleep several times - so a new room is in the cards added to the back of the house. Enjoy, I can't imagine the 30 day return policy will be used by you. They might even get it to you sooner than you expect, mine came about a week and a half earlier than what they were predicting.

@katzenjammer27 ,

I'm glad to "hear" another happy fellow. I have some top grade NOS tubes in my stash because of my Pre takes the 6sn7. I take delivery of Linlai's Global E tomorrow that I've been happy with in my Pre..

My system in very revealing & space is saved in my rack which is it's just going to make it. So I'm going to have to keep it on top of my cabinet until I do some tube rolling. So you see, we're both need a lil more ROOM. (lol)

I think the OP would have enjoyed the Aero, but he's not looking for a tube DAC. Happy Listening Everyone!

Hi everyone, had a busy day, just returning from golf in the cold. I have a lot of thinking & research to do based upon your excellent recommendations. Interesting no one, I mean NO one voted for the Holo. 

I thought it would be interesting if any of you also have KEF reference speakers, since, at least in my mind, speakers make the biggest difference in sound. if you do, it would be interesting to know what DAC you use. 

Also if anyone lives in the triangle area of NC I would love to hear your system and would be happy to reciprocate. Unfortunately my area other than Audio Advice has limited audio stores for auditioning. Thank you for your excellent advice. 

I bought both my Tambaqui and my Grimm MU1 used.

I will never look back.