I have to think the ULN-8 is something special because I already spent top dollar for mine in the guise of the Amarra Model 4. Not telling you to skip the comparison with the Alpha DAC, but I think the Model 4 was definitely the superior and better sounding DAC and does tons of stuff the Alpha doesn't do.
This weekend we should be able to at least start the 302 vs. 4 throw-down. Let's get ready to rumble!