Comparing streamer/DACs between $5-10k

The original Directstream MK1 with the correct mods can sound better than the new MK2. 

Thank you,  I have read everyones response and looked/read into your suggestions.  Those advocating for separates streamer/DAC have persuaded me.  The reason is I have now actually auditioned a streamer/DAC combo that I liked the sound of better than the A200.  It was the GoldNote- had a Bigger soundstage, more 3-D imaging and resolution.  But, Problem is twofold- it’s fiddly and I keep coming back to the reality that the Aurender app is what I want to use.  
 

HiFi Rose app reviews sounds full of glitches w irritated users on their forum.

I have had a Lumin D3 in my system for a few days & its app is not for me.  But I can imagine people like the Lumin sound better than the lower end of Aurenders. I might indeed.

 I’m shooting for a legacy/used Aurender paired with the Denafrips T2.  I’d rather send $ to CH, but Weiss 501 is a little steep pricewise.  Denafrips reviews sound beyond glowing.

FWIW, I just bought a used Aurender N10 and am using the OXCO clocked SPDIF output. It is amazing. I am using a Schiit Gumby for a DAC, probably looking at an upgrade there as well. 

@zlone

Congradulations! Great sounding streamer.

You are quite right about the additional opportunity for improvement by replacing the Gumby. I recently compared the Yggdrasil with the Linn  ~$5K DAC and it was like night and day. There are so much better DACs.  I was using an Aurrender N100 for comparison. So, you have a big opportunity for improvement. Depending on the rest of your equipment.

@ghdprentice Thanks! As for the DAC, I am going to let things soak for awhile, having upgraded preamp, speakers and streamer in the last six months. It is tempting to just go with an Yggdrasil or Pontus, but I will exercise some restraint, unless the right deal pops up! I am wary of ending up with a system that is too analytical, or maybe that is what I want? Need to listen for now.