I appreciate the convenience of a streamer/DAC as well...I've been impressed with Moon's 280D and 390 and recommend giving them a listen if you and they are on the lower end of your budget.
Comparing streamer/DACs between $5-10k
I’m looking for a DAC/Streamer single unit, willing to spend up to $7-8k & not opposed to something like a recent model/demo/open box unit. The only streamer/DAC experience I’ve had so far with my gear connected is with an Aurender A200 on demo from a dealer. Said dealer says it’s the “benchmark” at this general price point. IDK, It sounds great, but what would I likely hear differently with the following units?
-Meitner MA3
-HiFi Rose 150b
-Lumin T3 or P1
-Bricasti