What External DAC pairs best with Audio Research Equipment?

I can say that the ARC DAC 9 is simply stunning and completely complimentary with the Audio Research preamp and amp. This is what I have. The last thing I dropped in was the ARC Dac (I actually have the CD9 SE) I had no intention of buying it... I felt obligated to try it because my dealer had taken the trouble to bring it over... it was $17K. Within 30 seconds I was texting him... order one... I have no idea where I am going to get the money from... I will have to find a way. 

Since then I have tried lots of DACs... more expensive like the Berkeley Alpha Reference and dCS and it was superior. I am sure it is partly the synergy... having the exact same sonic qualities really helps the whole chain. 

lol that’s awesome 🙏  great response…can’t find that many DAC 9 reviews on you tube that’s interesting 

I’d say go with the matching  ARC DAC. 

There is no “pairs best” — there’s only what specific improvements you are looking for and what sound characteristics are most important to you.  If you elaborate more on that you’ll get much more meaningful and helpful recommendations here, otherwise you’re just getting recommendations for what other people like, which may have little in common with what you’re looking for. 

Soix great point…I currently have a very warm sound and would like to increase both the soundstage (meaning more holographic) and the detail accuracy of the instruments..if that makes any sense?thank u for making that point