Adding a Dac and Stresmer

What are you using for a streamer?

Correct, all you need is a dac/streamer, the preamp will handle volume.  To be honest, just get a Bluesound Node and use the internal DAC.  The differences between dacs are really small and extremely hard to discern.  Most reviews are done using high end headphones to mitigate room and amp impacts.  If you really want to keep everything separate though, get a WiiM Mini or Pro and an inexpensive DAC around a similar price to the Bluesound.  WiiM has a great app and product support.   

I tried the Node about 6 months ago, it made the bass sound sorta booming and not pleasing to my ears…but thanks..

I think the Pontus II is a great choice.  Add the Iris DDC so you can take advantage of its superior i2S input, and check out the new Innuos Pulse Mini streamer and their linear power supply and you’ll be all set.  Best of luck. 

Actually that sounds very good…I have read up on the Iris…The Auralic Aries G1.1 might change the sound of the Pontus….

‘thanks