I'm running a Bluesound Node 2i moded with a TeddyPardo Linear Power Supply; the power supply upgrade made a significant improvement. The problem with the higher end streamers for me is their OS lack of support for many streaming services. I use Amazon HD and Idagio and can't find one that supports these, however the BluOS does. I'm using a PS Audio Directstream DAC Mk1; prior to that I had a Stellar Gain Cell dac; big improvement with the Directstream. From everything I'm reading, the Mk2 is even better. Another one to consider, if the Mk2 is not in your budget, is the new Stellar Gold DAC. I purchased the new Stellar Gold Preamp and am very happy with it, and the Stellar Gold Preamp is getting great reviews.
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