OMG. What now?

Hierarchical thinking is getting in the way.

Try looking at the hobby as one which includes variation.

Instead of asking "What do I need to do to make my system better?" ask, "What might be a source of genuine variation within my system that might allow some interesting new experiences?"

In other words, rather than seeking "better" seek "as good but different." As we all do with movies, restaurants, friends, guitars, tennis rackets, etc.

@ideal8592

In all seriousness, you know something a miss if you’re thinking about something better! Maybe you need a good preamp or something else in your system that you must do before you spent your $$$ on a preamp. What about your room acoustics?

By listing your components, we are still speculating as what may sounds best or yield considerable improvements. IMHO, you get to musical nirvana by trial and error. Even if we share same components, they can sound different because of room interactions and our hearing abilities.

try to visit the conservatory (when a good professional group performs) ... buy tickets for the "right places" ... repertoire? - let there be something from what you think sounds perfect at home ... COMPARE .., take out a handkerchief from your breast pocket and wipe your tears)))

what iron then to change? - I don't know - sometimes you need to change everything)))

You haven't reached the end of audiophile dilemma if you're still questioning what ifs. The problem is the old known unknowns conundrum, just have to quit this drug to get off perpetual hamster wheel.

Vast majority of dacs will benefit from active pre. Based on reviews I've seen, even top flight dacs with analog volume benefit here.

If you are still thinking about gear and not just enjoying the music then either forge ahead or jump ship.