I'm having difficulty wading through the DAC fog, availablity and features. What are some choices for a good DAC for $500 or less.

I wasn't sure where to post this so here goes. I'm interested in the AKG K701 heaphones, and had a few questions. Will a Harman Kardon CDR-26 power them ok? I won't be able to afford a headphone pre-amp for a while. If you were going to spend $400.00 on phones which would you suggest? Would I be better off buying say a pair of Sennheiser - HD580 headphones, and a Antique Sound - HB1 Hybrid Tube Headphone Amp to go with it. I can do either one of those options.

To make a long story short: one month ago I changed my source components (Theta Digital). The new source is a Meridian G91.
Since the G91 has an integrated preamp I decided to trade in my current amplification (aging Classe CP60/CA300) for a power amp.
Now comes the tough part: I have two options - Balanced Audio Technology VK600 SE and Accuphase A-60. I listened to both in the same setup and I preferred the Accuphase but...
...the BAT was cold (only powered for 5 minutes before listening) and I was already somewhat tired.

Well last night might have turned out with a slight disappointment for CASINO ROYALE where it only walked away with one award for best sound. Well that

I'm a bit of a novice at home audio, any help would be appreciated. I am setting up a surround sound system around my new 54 inch TV. I just purchased some Bose speakers for my rear two surround speakers. (I have big cabinets in front). However, I really enjoy the Bose speakers for just listening to CD music in the living room. Is there a switch made that would allow me to safely hook up that one pair of Bose speakers in the rear so that they can be both my rear surround speakers AND my "B" speakers off the same amp?