Fiio E10k, AudioQuest DragonFly 1.2, Stoner Acoustics UD120 (which doesn't play nice with my laptop), Schiit Modi 2, and this have been on my Radar for a new DAC under $100. Thinking about pulling the plug on this 9018. I don't need any amp capabilities, just DAC.

I think you won't be disappointed. A lot of great components packed in this tiny DAC!

I just don't understand the 8 step volume control. I'll quote you in a post on a forum too so you can reply here or there or both for people looking to get this.