Just a little update, I ended up buying a used PS Audio Stellar Gain Cell DAC for what I felt like was a reasonable price. The DAC part wasn't important to as I have a Bifrost 2. I've only had it for a few days but, you guys were right, a 2 channel preamp changed the game.
I even ran the system direct through the Bifrost just to see, using Roon as a volume control, and the GC pre added much more to the music. The Elac Carina's that I have really have come to life!
As far as the DAC goes on the Stellar, it's really musical and has really good sound to it. But running the digital signal through the Bifrost 2 and using the analog inputs on the Stellar GC really bring it up a notch. Super clean, musical, and engaging sound. I can't stop listening. This thing is wonderful as a standalone Preamp.
Thank you all for your help, cheers.
-Will