I still do not own a DAC, but in the process of deciding on a model, and the reason I have been reading these forums almost daily. I have mostly tube gear, and would like a DAC that would sound great with my gear. I think that I consider a DAC a necessity these days because most music is in digital format.
DAC are computers, with no moving parts within, therefore, I guess this forum believes that good measurements is the only key to an excellent product. But then, reading the forums are comments about crooked displays, irregular fonts, replaced main boards, cheap soldering, and so on. Good measurements is just one important step to an excellent product, but the quality of the physical product is what’s determine reliability and durability of the products.
That is why I am so skeptical of all the Chinese branded products that are tested here, even when they measure well above everything else. And why the RME and Okto DACs are at the top of my list, even though they cost more. If I am wrong, I would like to be set straight, but those complains within the forums about quality is exactly the same of all the Chinese made stuff at Walmart.
I own American and British made gear, some are 30 years old, that I still use and sound great. Obviously with good care, feeding it with good electricity, maintenance, and even a visit to the shop.