Ok. On reading professional reviews. This confused me early on, a long time ago. But reviews should say, “for the money”. So, if you see an A rated $1.5 K component and a $10K component grouped in the same category.. you can be sure the $10K will blow away the cheaper one. For the money is always implied. I have heard and owned many in the same categories.
As far as choices. Only streaming and vinyl is appropriate in 2021. Do Qubuz… most audiophiles choose for best sound quality and largest selection of hi Rez streaming. As far as components. You have to put something together to start with. Get yourself a reference. Then you can read about the components you have and see if you want to upgrade and how.
Nothing wrong with starting with an integrated… you can always upgrade the DAC and use as a streamer… until you can upgrade the streamer. Make sure you like the MAC sound, it is very well liked… but to me is best for rock music only. Provided you like the sound, good choice. If you are unsure then go listen to an all MAC system somewhere, see what you think. I personally love the sound of Audio Reserach, but that is why there are different brands.
Overall, good approach. Did I see the speakers? These will be really important choices in a small room.