Apple TV Set Up

Darko has very helpful videos. This one demonstrates a method to connect an Apple iPhone or iPad to a USB DAC using Apple’s Lightning-to-USB adapter.
https://darko.audio/2021/06/the-best-way-to-stream-hi-res-audio-from-apple-music/

I am not aware of an audiophile streaming device that allows the option of installing the Apple Music app. Therefore, to play Apple Music, one needs a device that runs the app or the Apple Music web browser (https://music.apple.com/us/browse). Devices can be: iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Android tablet, Mac or PC computer.

Another option, as you know, is Airplay from a compatible device to an Airplay enabled streamer.

I use a Mac mini as a server/streamer that’s connected to my DAC via USB, and wirelessly via WiFi/LAN. I rarely listen via USB, however. Most of my listening is via WiFi/LAN since my DAC has a network card. If I wanted to use Airplay, then I could use Roon, although I never use this method either...but it’s available.

There are quite a few Bluesound Node 2i listed on various sites. A newly listed Node 2i on USAudioMart today. Not sure why so many are for sale, but trying one seems worth investigating. It would likely be an upgrade from the AppleTV in your system...particularly considering your use of Tidal.

Moving up in price:
Cambridge Audio CXN V2 - $1099
Innuos Zen Mini - $1399
Bricasti M5 - $2400

If your MacBook is losing connection to your wifi, then it’s a wifi problem that needs to be addressed. Perhaps a good mesh wifi router system. Hardwiring is best, but you state you don’t want extra wires. 

I think the Bluesound is a good suggestion, and worth a try, especially if you can hardwire it like the AppleTV.

As far as I can tell after having done some research, the AppleTV device must be selected as the Sound Output device each time the MacBook is restarted or shut down. You can do this from the loudspeaker icon found at the top of the Finder screen, or from the Control Center, in addition to your method.

Unfortunately, I don’t believe the AppleTV can be set as the default Sound Output device (my MacBook always reverts to internal speakers after selecting an AirPlay device).

You have a nice system. To take advantage of its capabilities, I believe you might be happier with a dedicated streamer. Why? You’d be able to set it as the default Sound Output device. You’d get better sound due to AirPlay’s audio limitation of 16-bit/44.1kHz, unless you’re streaming from Apple Music, in which case it will play 16-bit/44.1kHz, 24-bit/48kHz, and hi-res 24-bit/192kHz formats.

More in-depth info here:
https://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/apple-airplay-2-explained/