i think minidsp is the company we should really hope other will look at and be inspired by. they were among the first to sell DSP when people bought class A and Class AB amps. they were among the first to features Dirac live. the first to provide full digital, Analog multichannel processors at low cost with decent quality.
i have the minidsp ddrc24 and i agree with you that if it would have had another spdif out (just one) for a better external DAC (any ESS9039pro) it would have been a giant killer, the mass market product "all in one, one size fits all".
but they do the SHD and in the crazy audiopholery market 1,2k€/$ is nothing. and if you love convenience and peace of mind go for SHD power. just add a good Floor standers or Bookshelf and sub and you'll be incredibly rewarded.
I suggest you to listen by yourself to DDRC24. 30$dac is beyond my ears capability (24/96 with more than 90db of dynamic range (CD-ROM) and a THD much below audibility), real rooms early reflections screw up the direct signal much more 20db sinad over 90db.
do you really need SINAD above 90? I struggle to hear sinewave at 14kHz and I'm just 46 years old. my young daughter could detect 17kHz, what kind of HD sound we are looking for if it won't excite our ears or reach out our brain...?
Amir concluded that "it" worth the price for all it delivered (room tuning.. ) and he didn't took Dirac live in the equation.
try it, with few absorbers on early reflection points, a rugged carpet (some bass trap if you can) and yes, maybe you are very close to happiness, more than you might believe.
my best
ps look at this, if you have some skill in DIY, with 50€ you have the gold set