iOS wired thru decent DAC vs BS Node 2i alone

Has anyone compared this type of setup (I.e., an iPhone or iPad going to something like a Denafrips Ares II, Topping D90 SE, or similar level DAC into an integrated amp (all connections wired and streaming from a premium music subscription service app) versus Bluesound Node device using BluOS as controller and no external DAC?

Just had a Node 2i completely stop talking to BluOS after only 18 months, early indications from the tech support persons from both Bluesound and Crutchfield aren’t optimistic, and I am not too keen on going the dedicated streamer plus control app route again. I can deal with taking a SMALL hit on SQ to gain more long-term durability here but hate to experience a significant real-world-audible downgrade…