Now that I have a headphone with great measurements (LCD-2), I think it's time to give my source and amp the same treatment. I want to do it right this time, and not rely on subjective reviews. I figured this was the best place to ask and, to keep thing "on-topic", I want to open discussion to measurements of amps and DACs of all shapes, sizes, and prices.
First though, this is what I'm looking for. I want spend between $500 and $1000 total, but if I don't sacrifice anything by going cheaper so be it. I am open to all solutions, including internal soundcards. Obviously the amp needs to be powerful enough for the LCD-2. The more power the better, in case I ever get any other headphones. I want as neutral a setup as possible from 20Hz to 20kHz, with inaudible noise, crosstalk, distortion, maybe even low jitter (because why not right?). The DAC only needs to be 16/44.1 because 99% of my music is CD quality. Any more is just a bonus.
Originally I thought I would be buying a Schiit Asgard or Lyr with the Bifrost DAC. The amps put out plenty of power. However, I'm not sure if the amps are colored or not. I'm also losing interest in the Lyr because I would prefer a solid state amp for minimal distortion and maintenance. On the other hand, the Asgard has no better THD (both at 0.1%). The fact that they are made in the United States is a small plus, as is how powerful they are at competitive prices. I really wish I could see some more measurements though.
A recent favorite of mine is the CEntrance DACmini. I imagine the 1.5W (750mW per channel) output would be plenty, and the specs given by CEntrance look very promising. The subjective reviews of it, in particular when paired with the LCD-2, support the choice as well. The fact they use a 10 Ohm output by default because it sounds more "musical" is a concern, and makes me lose a little faith in CEntrance. That brings the price to $900, since I would probably want the 1 Ohm mod. Surely I could get something better for that price?
I was going to mention a specific DIY amp project by a specific blogger, but another thread was just made about it which appears to have been deleted so I dare not anger the moderators 
For standalone DACs, thanks to a promising bunch of RMAA measurements by MrGreen, something in the Echo Audiofire line would be nice. I wouldn't use any of the recording features like multiple inputs/outputs, so perhaps I could get something cheaper? What is the cheapest model that can be used as a standalone DAC (as in, can output an unamped analog signal to a separate amp)? Are there DACs built for standalone use that measure as well for affordable prices?
Obviously feel free to ask questions. And feel free to discuss objectively well-made amps and DACs outside of my price range and needs, but warn me first 
B
