Dazed and confused about streamer upgrade


I started a thread in the amp/preamp section asking about an integrated amp upgrade and got some good advice that made re-think my upgrade path.  I have a Macintosh MA8900, driving Vandersteen Treo CT’s, with a six pack of Rel S510’s.  I use a BluOS Node 2i as a streamer.  No CD’s, no need for storage.  I had thought about upgrading the Mac to a Boulder 866, but am now thinking I may get a bigger improvement for less dollars by upgrading the BluOS next.  I don’t know much about DACs and streamers, but am thinking that I should look at streamers only, since the 866 has a good DAC, and why pay for a combo DAC/ Streamer when the DAC will be bypassed.   Suggestions for a $3k to $5k streamer?  Or stick with upgrading the Mac? Thanks for any help!
cosmic_charlie

Showing 2 responses by jimob

Imo if you want a reference class  dac $5-7 k you can get a great one  .I have the pontus 2, Holo springs another great price performance . Denafrips terminator$6k+, or Holosprings top May dac $5k and outstanding price performance most would be thrilled to have either.
never count on the dac in a streamer or integrated  to compete 
with a reference stand alone dac.