New to streaming, looking for a budget streamer

As an update, I intend to order the node2i. Would have been ordered by now however had an accident and am in the hospital. Expect a full recovery. Probably will order via Audio Advisor. Have ethernet cable and optical cable. Will get a C7 power cable. Thanks to everyone for the guidance. I will keep in touch.  

Thanks Bob and Fuzz. Yes, I was thinking a cable connection would be best.  I could easily set my router close to my DAC such that I would not need more than a 10' cable. I believe the Node will take either ethernet or USB. Any recommendations for either cable. 

I am wanting to keep this simple. 

Well, just got simpler, the USB input is for a stick only. Leaves ethernet.

Thanks Guys! I will look into the ProJect Stream Box however believe I will go with the Node. Use the APT on my phone or get a iPAD.  I have may AIFF file on HD which I can use via the USB and will look into a CAT8 cable for connection. Believe the SQ via my Audio Mirror DAC will serve me well. 

 I have decided I will go with the Bluesound Node 2i and use a quality ethernet cable from the router. based on what I have gathered from this forum it is relatively user friendly, quality at a budget, simple installation, and will serve my current objectives. Should I find that streaming replaces my current listening mode (CDs) I will likely upgrade and use the Node in a secondary system. 
I thank all for the guidance. 

@arafiq Yes I have been playing around with the idea of going back to a integrated amplifier. The Blackhawk was (remains) one of interest. Not sure what I am going to do at this point. I did purchase a Line Magnetic 211ia which I am playing around with. Just missed a opportunity to purchase a Sugen A21 SS integrated I wanted to try out. If one buys right one can explore aspects of audio in one's own room/system and resale for little loss. Some risk involved however I feel it a small price for the education. It is a hobby after all. 

Well, I am back at home after a two week vacation in the hospital. Expecting a full recovery after a fall leading to a subarrachroid hemorrhage brain injury. Will order the Node2i on Monday. Hope for a easy learning curve with use of the apt on my iphone.

Thanks again everyone for the help on this decision.   



 

Well I have not ordered the Bluesound yet. There is a dealer about 50 miles from my home which I frequent (pre covid) that sell it. I am going to give them my business once I can get there as opposed to purchasing online. Been at this hobby for 50+ years without streaming, guess I can wait a little longer.

I understand some have replaced the cheap wall wort on their router with a LPS. Any thoughts on this?

Again I appreciate the help.