@cbl117
An alternative not mentioned is the Teac Reference NT-505 which uses the AKM 4497 chipset instead of the Lumin's ESS 9028 chipset. It is a full featured streamer that is fully MQA capable and uses the Lumin app the same as their Esoteric branded family members. It also has a full set of digital inputs to serve as a stand-alone DAC. I also own a Directstream Sr. with the Bridge II and have owned a Lumin streamer. The Teac is half your budget but if you are interested in the Directstream it can be purchased inside of your target budget if you shop around. I also have owned the Sonica and any of the three Lumin, Directstream or Teac are a step up in abilities and app. If I were in your shoes I would buy the Teac and put the $2000 difference in the bank.
An alternative not mentioned is the Teac Reference NT-505 which uses the AKM 4497 chipset instead of the Lumin's ESS 9028 chipset. It is a full featured streamer that is fully MQA capable and uses the Lumin app the same as their Esoteric branded family members. It also has a full set of digital inputs to serve as a stand-alone DAC. I also own a Directstream Sr. with the Bridge II and have owned a Lumin streamer. The Teac is half your budget but if you are interested in the Directstream it can be purchased inside of your target budget if you shop around. I also have owned the Sonica and any of the three Lumin, Directstream or Teac are a step up in abilities and app. If I were in your shoes I would buy the Teac and put the $2000 difference in the bank.