The same people who manufactures a USD21K and USD31K DAC for audiophiles at Light Harmonic, is now crowd funding a desktop DAC aimed people who love good music but just can't afford the price.
I backed their previous campaign 'Geek Out' (portable USB DAC) and they were very responsive on improving on the original design based on backers feedback and suggestions during the campaign. Quite a number of us from Australia backed it.
This new campaign 'Geek Pulse' is mostly to get feedback on what consumers want in a desktop DAC. The amount they are looking to raise is USD38K and they are already well on the way there, so you can be sure the campaign will get funded. A lot of the suggestions from their previous and very successful Geek Out campaign went into this DAC design.
They are aiming for a USD499 RRP when it comes out mid next year but you can get it for USD249 if you are super early + $40 for postage.
Have a look! http://igg.me/at/geekpulseaudio/x/4867031
MODs, please delete if it breaks the rules and I did read the WIKI.