Very noticeable differences using as a streamer only. I have a McIntosh C49 Preamp into a McIntosh MA462 so they resolve very well and has a good McIntosh DAC. Using a Wiim Ultra ($350) to stream only sounds ok/good, is better than Bluetooth and the unit works very, very well, punching way above weight for $.
Next I tried an ELECTROCOMPANIET ECM 1 MKII - High End DAC and Streamer ($6,000)... The DAC is not as good as the McIntosh, but getting close. As a streamer only, it sounds better than the Wiim, but the user interface and user experience isn't as good as the $350 Wiim, LOL. But yes, sounds better. Wiim 85% of way there, Electrocompaniet 93ish% there.
Next I tried an EverSolo DMP A-6 Master Edition ($1,200). As a streamer only this is the ticket - sounds BETTER than Electrocompaniet 96ish% there - has a good user interface/experience too. The DAC is ok, not great... not as good as the Electrocompaniet, but better than the Wiim by a lot.
Next I tried an EverSolo DMP A-8 ($1,880). This is a terrific streamer and DAC. All around better than the Electrocompaniet in every aspect. The DAC is nearly as good as McIntosh, but the streamer is outstanding - very detailed and clean.
I'm using the DMP A-8 to stream via its DAC analog into a McIntosh MA-352 integrated for my office. Super setup for the money.
So, to me, sometimes spending more is not better - The Chinese and Koreans are surpassing streamer tech of Europe in my opinion, especially when considering the money.