Streaming DAC recommendation


Hello, I am researching about a streamer + DAC combo. My setup has 802 D3 McIntosh MC462 and C2600. I am looking to replace the C2600. I only listen to streaming or local files via Roon. No longer have a turn table, so I think the C2600 may not be the best pre-amp for this use case. I am considering Cambridge audio Edge NQ. I have not seen a lot of discussion around that product. I will be greatly thankful for recommendations, products similar to edge NQ. I want to keep the budget under 5K , used gear.
Thank you!

audiobuddy

I have an Aurender and love it.   I'll normally recommend them but I have no idea how Roon interfaces with Aurender so I'll also recommend Innuos.   Great sounding streamers and software is good too.

My Dad is currently using an Eversolo A6 Master into his MA8950 Amp and honestly it sounds pretty good using the Mac's DAC card. Sounds pretty good using analog too, but seems best with USB to the Mac's DAC.   

Great system that deserves a good source .....

TMR gave me a great deal on an Aurender N200 new, they are an authorized dealer.  The A200 has a similar feature set and is a DAC/ Streamer 

They are authorized dealers for Innuos, and HiFi Rose too

OP look into a Bricasti M3 with the network card. Once heard you will be hooked, I was. 😉

@audiobuddy there are few different options here. You have streamers and music servers with a built in DAC such as Auralic Altair, Lumin D2, Aurender A200. This category units usually would have their own UI. Auralic’s Lightning DS, Lumin’s UI app and Aurender’s Conductor app (not Roon ready).
Then you have DACs with an onboard network renderer such as PS Audio DSD, Bricasti, and the above mentioned Gustard. These are going to be Roon ready or compatible with apps such as Mconnect. Digital to analog conversion will be the primary focus of these units, with the network renderer being good enough but not on par with a dedicated streamer in $3,000-$4,000+ range. 

 

If you want a one unit integrated solution and are not looking to have flexibility to upgrade the streamer alone, then the streamer/music server with a built in DAC is what you need. If you don’t need Roon, go with Aurender (although there are constant rumors about future Roon integration/certification). Other than that, Lumin or Auralic are good units.