Hey, I'm on the same boat of what DAC/amp to get, debating between the NFB-15 and NFB-11. Prior to hearing about Audio-gd my options were the Objective and the Schiit combos, but taking into account the flexibility all three bring to the table, the two latter options fell off. Of course by flexibility I mean that both the NFB-15 and 11, having an identical chassis, allow for USB, optical and RCA connections, while the O&O and the M&M only have one or two of those, depending how much you pay with the former as well. Unfortunately those are the only criteria I can judge by, since I am yet to have a first experience with an (external) DAC and amp, so more info in this context would be great. I should add that my intended listening gear are the AKG K272, Q701 and K7XX (once it arrives), and the Hifiman RE400.
Having said that, I, as the author, am looking at getting the HD 800 eventually, so the natural question to ask would be about balanced input. As far as I've managed to understand, it is much preferable to the unbalanced connection as it removes essentially all noise, and the previously mentioned options lack the option for it. The question is then should I just get an end-game combo, which would "save" money in the long run (I actually cringed writing that)? Or would it be preferable to take the gradual approach? OP, could you elaborate on your current setup? Are you satisfied with it, or is there anything that you would've done differently?