Dipping my toes in the streaming waters..


I'm just getting started with a higher quality streaming set up and I had a few questions:
  1. I just purchased a Bel Canto e.one streamer; should I use the internal DAC or the DAC in my Classe Sigma preamp?  The Classe won't do MQA but I'm not sure which DAC is better otherwise.
  2. Any advice on an appropriate DAC upgrade for the Bel Canto?  I'd like to keep the price under $2 or $3k if possible.  Or would I be better off just saving up for a higher quality device such as a Lumin?
  3. The Bel Canto will connect to my Tidal account, but I've also been trying out Amazon's new HD service.  Is there any hardware that is compatible?  
Any help / advice is very much appreciated!
thanks.
Matt
toomanyfishtanks
Since I don't own either a Bel Canto or Classe product, I can't help you.
But, switching out DAC's isn't hard. So, why not try each and see what floats your boat?
As far as a DAC upgrade, I would highly recommend an Ayre Codex. Used prices are just above $1K. Truly a giant killer. 
Or, a Schiit Gungnir or Yggy with all the current upgrades.
The only other streamer that has a wide range of services is Bluesound.
I own a pair of Nodes, and can say it performs quite nicely.
The only streamer that will beat it with regards to sound quality is an Aurender, but unfortunately, it only offers Tidal and Quobuz.
As far as MQA goes, I wouldn't put a whole lot of stock in it. To some, it sound 'better', to others, high rez is just as good. And, considering that many manufacturers aren't jumping on board to incorporate MQA, I would just wait and see how it all shakes out.

Lastly, there is a Windows based sound optimizer app called Fidelizer.
I am using this and can say it really does improve the sound.
Bob