Hi, kruppy.
Thank you for replying and giving us some background. I find it educational to read other people's trials and errors along their paths to audio excellence. This helps me to practice more patience when I get the itch to upgrade. Patience allows me to make a much more informed decision after considerable research (both reading and listening).
I've got what I consider to be a pretty nice preamp (AVA Transcendence 8 tube preamp). I know there are better preamps out there, but I also know I don't need to rush out and spend >$2000 on a new unit any time soon. However, my current DAC (Cambridge Audio's DACMagic Plus) is the weak link in my system and I'm certain it is holding everything else back. I want to audition offerings by iFi, Eastern Electric, NuPrime, and Chord (and anything else that pops up on my radar). The insane part of me tells me to buy the Auralic Vega, but the saner part reminds me how important my marriage is. When I get excited about this or that DAC, I remind myself how rapidly DAC technology has changed just in the last two years. This forces me to cool down in order to wait a few more months to see what else develops. I surely wish to avoid spending $3000 on a wonderful DAC only to discover it has been overshadowed by a new (and far cheaper) DAC six months later.
Back to Modwright products. I'm fortunate in that I have a buddy (aldcoll) who owns a MW amp (15 minute drive away), and I live within easy driving distance of the MW factory. One day soon, I may just drive up for an audition.
Enjoy!
Michael