is it because they're based around measurement rather than marketing
Thats the way I think of it.
You can get a decent smartphone for 100$ from China these days, noting is stopping them from making a great DAC for that price. It´s not that different after all, the main component (SoC and DAC chip) comes from a large company, the engineers implement it with the support circuitry, a case, some software and so on, and then they sell it with a reasonable profit margain and based on specs (that might or might not be so true, not too different from western companies in that respect).
If we´ve learned one thing from these reviews, than that with audio products especially, price and performance don´t necessarily correlate.
I hope, that LA-QXD1 will sound better, but maybe the simple Khadas Tone Board with no frills will deliver the better sound, who knows
Well, judging by Amirs measurements, there will be no audible difference if both DACs are in proper working condition.
If you are happier with the LA-QXD1 it´s either for features or feel-good.