˄ I suppose I could say it's unfortunate the DLIII was used in such a test as results would be few are far between with any priced DAC as the method of recording output and listening to the result was flawed.
I still own my Zero which is upgraded from stock, my DLIII is stock however. I've heard a number of op-amp based DACs which most recently include the Zero, Emu 0404 and the DacMagic; all of which, like any op-amp based DAC sound identical when matched. The pricier DACs such as the recent Audio-GD products offer more of a colored texture, such is DAC-A is suggested for bright headphones while DAC-B suggested for warmer headphones. What I like about the DLIII and my reason for ownership is that is doesn't sound bright or warm, it doesn't sound like anything, it's tone (or lack thereof) disappears from my listening chain altogether. With this in mind an audible sound signature would be near impossible to differentiate, this is also why many people like colored DACs, furthermore this is why a lot of newcomers or casual listeners don't appreciate a good source.
When I first heard the DLIII it was like my music had been cleaned, thuds and vibrations were turned into kick drums and bass guitars. It's hard to explain this movement forward in audio reproduction as everything 'sounds just fine' before an upgrade, I can only say I won't be going back. Another difference I appreciate comes down to hearing everything better; the music is seemingly wider and instruments spacial, no doubt this is because of my tubes and/or my headphones, but it goes to show that music starts at the source.