Hlep chosing a streamer/server for my DAC

All good brand recommendations above.  However, consider this, drop a DDC in between your MAC and the A26 DAC, reclocks the stream signal.  Gustard U18 DDC is $499., USB to DDC, I2S to DAC.  Then download Qobuz app (and subscription) to your MAC, load JPLAY iOS to your iPad ($50/yr) to control the MAC (called renderer in JPLAY).  I have this setup with Denafrips IRIS DDC to Pontus DAC. Sounds as good/better than every sub $3k streamer I auditioned, all for less than $1k.  Now if you go Grimm MU1 @$13k, you’ll likely get better SQ, but that’s not the point.

Dedicated streamers/renderers/transports are audio optimized computers that offer some convenience, excellent SQ and additional functionality, e.g., DSP, if you’re interested.  My understanding is the A26 has a built-in renderer, maybe figure out how to implement that first? 
 

Looked it up, Gustard A26 supports Roon and UPNP.  JPLAY is a UPNP controller.  Therefore you should be able to plug the internet directly into your A26 and use Roon or JPLAY to control Qobuz on your iPad.  I’m sure yiur AI assistant can explain how. I’m only HI, human intelligent. 

Another vote for (used) Lumin or Innous. Down the line…,,A lot of streaming folks use Roon. You need a roon server or a streamer w/ Roon. It’s a likely progression.

Back when, I left the Macbook for better sound and got it.  Given the all in of a digital setup that’s on par with excellent vinal please take your time. What you’re coming from is a big step up. The final 10% or so needs stuff but one bit you should add now is a noise reduced switch and good Ethernet cables. 
 

Hello Audiogoners, I have been overwhelmed by the responses I have received. Your advice based upon your experiences is EXACTLY what I was looking for. Thank you. I'm still leaning Innuos. If I can swing it in my budget, I favor the Lumin U2, not only for its ability to stream great music, but for its optical ethernet connection as well (optical ethernet could by the wave of the future). Aurender has been a stalwart in the digital realm for years. You Aurender guys are pretty loyal bunch, no doubt for a very good reason. I haven't been thinking about that streamer because it's my understanding that all are not Roon capable except for one. Maybe Roon is not such a necessary thing? I'd be interested all of your opinions on Roon. I have read some who say it improves the sound, some say it degrades it. What do you guys think? 

Thanks to those who were trying to help me with a more budget friendly solution. I have a rather nice unit in the Acoustic Research VSi75. I really want to pair it with a streamer and DAC worthy of its capabilities. But if my budget won't allow, I always have your budget friendly suggestions to consider. 

I'm still unclear which is the best connection from streamer to DAC. Is it USB, AES, I2S, etc.? I would be interested in your experience with that aspect of digital streaming.

If you have nothing more to add, again, thank you for your kind suggestions. You guys are the best, Eric

I would take a hard look at Innuos (which will be very very detailed) and Aurender (which will be smoother and more forgiving)  

In my experience Aurender has the edge in UI.  

Both Aurender and Innuos will transport Tidal and Qobuz for you in full resolution.

On a side note, you DAC might will likely hold your excellent downstream gear from reaching full potential.  In the digital world DACs are king.  Good luck and have fun.