you could Also do a ROON config:
SGC ST i5 for the core:$1.2k
PS Audio Airlens:$2K
1 year Roon Subscription:$150
dump the rest of the budget on cableing.
Help me pick a Dac
Budget 4000
I currently have the latest version of the Bluesound Node and a PS Audio Stellar Gaincell Dac for the digital Frontend. I stream qobuz and flac from a networked drive.
The rest of system is a Backert Lab Rhumba 1.3 , Schiit aiger monos and Zu soul 6 speakers. Also have a Nottingham horizon turntable, Hana cart and Lehman Cube phono pre. I think the modest tt sounds more natural and holographic compared to my digital frontend so I think I can do better.
Also I’m pretty isolated as far as audio goes so I’ve only heard my own system and likely will have buy without an audition.
Stu