@jokan Thanks for the detailed reply.
Ah, if the feet are not included in the 40mm height measurement, a AO200/DO200 (and probably DA-9/SU-9) will likely barely fit under my desk shelf. Might need to swap out the feet like you mentioned though.
I would love to get the latest device of everything, but that would make me keep increasing my budget!
I was initially just looking at the Loxjie A30 all-in-one solution but thought "if I'm just going to upgrade in 6 months or so, mind as well just get myself something that will last me 2 years+".
So here I am now, contemplating to get a separate DAC, Speaker Amp, and Headphone Amp, and as my budget increases, so do my options.
Although, I am limited by desktop space, hence the SMSL/other "chi-fi" devices appeal to me. Planning to run a KEF Q150, Q350, Triangle Borea BR02, BR03, or Dali Oberon 1 btw.
I actually also live in Tokyo, most of the places I have visited recommend Marantz/Denon/Fostex/Luxman/Yamaha/other "big names".
They are all reputable brands of course, but I think I can do better cost-performance wise and desk-footprint wise.
Right now, I am thinking of either
・DA-9/SU-9/SH-9 stack
・AO200/DO200/HO200 stack
・DAC + Speaker Amp combo of above + some other headphone amp (love the JDS knob)
・M300 MKII/SA300/some other headphone amp
I don't plan to make the purchase right away btw.
I'm planning on moving out of my current apartment early next year and am deciding on desk layout/other furniture, hence also deciding on an audio set to place on my desk.