Thanks,
I have a Goldmund Mimesis 12+ that I use for a long time: dynamic, great sound image, transparency, softness, fluidity and total lack of aggressiveness.
We often hear that older generations of high-end converters sound more "analog" compared to newer models equipped with sophisticated chips (like ESS or others). Converters for "music lovers" rather than "audiophiles". The kind of ready-made formula that does not mean much from my point of view.
But the current mode of resistor network DACs would tend to show that technological progress in the field of conversion chips does not necessarily translate into musical gain.
In my case, the reasons why I did not find it useful to replace the Mimesis are simple: I mainly listen to a repertoire that use a lot of instruments sometimes sound a little "green" (harpsichord, baroque violin , etc.) that does not support ultra-analytical renditions, a little unbalanced and therefore tiring in the long run.
Moreover, the added value of a change of DAC seems harmless compared to a change of speakers, amp or listening room.
Good listening.