I also find that the XC match up with better sources much better. If you’re trying to stay within budget and don’t mind the idea of portable and home use I’d check out the chord Hugo because it can be purchased discounted now that the 2 has come out. And it matches up very well with the XC’s specially if you plan to travel or bring them to work as well. The Mytek Brooklyn is also great, same with the Naim Dac V1 both work well with the XC but cost over twice your budget. The DAC in the chord mojo works well with the XC’s but at times I feel it could have a bit more power but it definitely brings out some details in a cheap portable Dac alternative. I personally have not had great luck with schiit products, I found Yggdrasil to have unreliable sound and back connectors. Seems you need to leave the Dac constantly running in order for the sound to be acceptable, if the Dac is running cold it can sound off and harsh. Next the back plug connectors wouldn’t always connect well, Schiit did eventually repair the unit taking their time to do so. When warmed up and running it sounds very nice for its price, it is a far cry from my chord Dave, but also much less money. So I can agree schiit is reasonably priced but it comes with some trade offs, oblivious cheaper manufacturing, weird quirk of needing to be constantly running or warmed up for a long time before listening but when functioning they are a good sound for the money. I personally would avoid because I’d rather spend the money to get something that is convenient and built well. Good luck on your hunt,