I’m having precisely the same problem logging into Tidal thru the media control app on my 105 as of yesterday. Been pulling my hair out. I spent hours googling and trying to get Oppo (although I didn’t expect much from them under the circumstances) and found nothing I could use. I’m not sure if i should be happy to hear it’s not just me or not. Although it does give me some comfort to know I didn’t just overlook something dumb.
I’ll be interested to see which way you’ll go. I had been attracted recently to the Matrix Element i2, but my price range is like yours and the MA well exceeds it. I didn’t expect the need to come so soon.
Good Luck.