Need to get off of bluetooth.... looking for a wifi streamer for my budget

With $500, the "best" option is a Cambridge Audio MXN10, it should fit all your requirements. 

I took all my Apple Music, put it on an external disk, plugged that into my streamer. 

For sound quality, you need Tidal, or Qobuz, playing direct on the streamer. It's a game changer from BT, and other services. It's like going to HD TV, once you start watching it, you can't go back. 

I use my tried and true iFi Zen Stream into my McIntosh C2800 with the DA2 integrated DAC.  I think it sounds great and it’s an inexpensive way to try streaming.  I’ve never had any issues with my Zen Stream but it may be a little less user friendly than others.  I’m looking to try another streamer soon just to experiment but the Zen Stream is quite good.

edit:  I'm using Tidal Direct for my streaming service

WiiM pro plus…

Cambridge Audio CXN 100. I have one. While not using it currently, I’m impressed every time I did play. Dollar for dollar it’s a great value. WiFi and XLR.

The advise about waiting to step it up is a valid. You have excellent gear. Streamer should be at same level of your system. $1k is not going to get you anywhere near there.

Did anyone mention WiiM yet?

Oops 🤫...just above ^