setting requirements for my streaming DAC+"preamp"/volume control and suggestions

Hi all,

I'm in the process of building my first high end system from scratch and need some help setting requirements and suggestions on the streaming DAC/preamp question.

After much auditioning I've already decided I like the presentation of Wilson Audio Sabrina speakers paired with a Mcintosh 452 amp to drive them in a relatively big room. I listen to a lot of electronic music and here is the kicker - I listen exclusively to streaming. No phono, no radio, no CDs, no tape. Maybe at some point cached streaming but that's it.

I am trying to decide how to best choose a streaming DAC and preamp/volume control (technically I'm willing to break out the streamer, DAC and preamp if necessary but not starting there). So far I have heard a Linn Selekt + Katalyst with the exact equipment above and liked it.  I could stop searching here but I'm not sure if I'm paying for features I don't need or can achieve the same or better for slightly less or more.   My thought at present is that I should look at streaming DACs with volume controls, no preamp (which I could always add later - or never).

• is writing off the idea of getting a preamp separate at this point foolish?  

• what 'requirements' do I need to set for the volume control/preamp portion of my streaming DAC (or streamer + DAC)? Is there anything I need to think about 'pairing' it with the McIntosh or can I be assured that any DAC with a volume control will be OK and just a question of what I like with my ears?   I honestly I don't even know how to determine exactly if a DAC has an analog preamp or a digital volume control when reading specs and if both are ok.  (please enlighten)

• knowing that I definitely like what I heard in the Linn Selekt + Katalyst with my exact equipment are there brands or models I should consider either (i) in an attempt to save money or spend a little more to get the same kind of presentation or (ii) in an attempt to contrast the presentation with the Linn plus the gear I know I'm getting? I can tell from my speaker evaluation and with the music I like I clearly like faster more articulate presentations but I don't know where that hits a limit of too much so I'm open to anything at this point.  I'd just like to start grouping my choices.

Apologies for the long post. I hope I stated my requirements cleanly enough.