Surprised you find the dac is less good than airplay to an avr. World class it’s not but it’s not horrible IME . A descent outboard would definitely make a different I believe. I can hear it for sure. Also a reclocker on the DAC makes a difference. I use a cheap IFI one and it makes a definite difference to my ear.
Interesting to hear your take jjss49. I always wonder about the expensive streamer and whether it is worth it. Seems people have vastly different opinions. The Node probably has the best interface and compatible with the most services. I was thinking a Melco but if the SQ is not there paying much more for a less fleshed out interface does nothing make sense. What’s the rest of your setup?