DAC with the best midrange ever.....

Rapogee, their is no "BEST" of anything in high end audio, however their can many great sounding pieces depending on personnal taste and system synergy. Take a look at my GON review of the Accustic Arts Tube Hybrid reference DAC for the details regarding why I choose it over other DACS I had auditioned. And yes, it has a gorgeous midrange along with many other sonic virtues.

Don't forget about a used Timbre TT-1000, its midrange was hard to beat.

I second the MHDT Paradisea. I've had the Audio Aero Capitole Mk 2 and damned if I don't like this 600.00 wonder better than the Capitole which I think went for something like 8K. It sounds as good in many ways as the best stuff out there and it dirt cheap in comparison.

I like the sound of the PS Audio Digital Link III-warmth, life-like midrange especially voices, strings, piano, guitar.

The MHDT Havana bests the Paradisea and is priced accordingly. I tried to like the Benchmark (new and old versions) but did not like either one. My favorite is my current Modwright Transporter. It's one of the most natural sounding DAC's I've heard, especially with the right tubes. Disclaimer: Modwright is one of my clients. Kicks some midrange ass and will give you detail to write home about. Musical as all get-out. YMMV. I completely agree with the previous opinion that there is no "best"...just personal preferences.