Here is my recommendation. I have been streaming since 2014. My first streamer was a Pioneer N50. Later in 2017, I moved to a Sony UHP-H1 SACD/Streamer. Finally in 2018, I moved to the Denon Heos Link V2 so that I can subscribe to Tidal. As far as sound, they were all very close to each other with the Pioneer being slightly above the other two. The average prices was around $600 US but the Sony was under $300. By they way, all of these units sounded better with an external DAC. (REGA) Anyway, what I discovered through AB comparisons is that my Cambridge Audio CD transport ($500) sounded much better than all three. I am not implying that you buy a cd player instead. Streamers offer other benefits that cd players don't have. However, my recommendation to anybody who is after great "audiophile" sound is not too spend too much money a streamer. Get something decent that will satisfy your needs. Used streamers are a good option if you don't plan to subscribe to music services. With that, I will recommend the following three streams based on the fact that I have auditioned them:
1. Cambridge Audio CXN V2. This streamer has a great sounding DAC as well with plenty of digital inputs. Best sounding of the three, with or without external DAC.
2 Bluesound Node 2i. This is my second choice. It has a good app as well. Will sound best is connected to a "decent" DAC.
3. Denon Heos Link V2. This is what I have on my system. Not bad when connected to my REGA or Musical Fidelity DAC.
I hope this helps. Good luck
Cheers.
1. Cambridge Audio CXN V2. This streamer has a great sounding DAC as well with plenty of digital inputs. Best sounding of the three, with or without external DAC.
2 Bluesound Node 2i. This is my second choice. It has a good app as well. Will sound best is connected to a "decent" DAC.
3. Denon Heos Link V2. This is what I have on my system. Not bad when connected to my REGA or Musical Fidelity DAC.
I hope this helps. Good luck
Cheers.