Best streamer for a returning audio guy


Hello, hope you all can help. My question is what is the most reasonable streamer to try in my system to see if it works for me? 
  A little background is in order . I’m an older gentleman, who was into audio years ago. I’m currently rebuilding my system with newer technology. I have significant older components. Such as Adcom separates, ( not currently using), Yamaha reciever rxa 2000 as a preamp, Rotel amp driving center speaker and rears, crown class d driving main speakers, I have many speaker choices. Currently using Kef 105/2 as mains ( have Martin Logan’s as well) , Martin logan cinema as center, Martin Logan’s a rear surround. All interconnects and speaker wires are morrow audio. 
 I am / was old school with over 1500 vinyl album’s from years of collecting. About 100 cds. One interesting note, this rebirth of my interest in audio came with my wife giving me a turntable for Christmas several years ago. Finally joked it up and after 30 years I was hooked again!!!

  On to my question, it appears that almost everyone is now streaming their music. Ok, I understand the concept ( have Sirius in the car) . What is the best unit to try this out. Can’t break the bank, used is ok, actually preferred. Any outlet advice would be appreciated. 
  I’m working to eventually get to the level of most of you. I have visited my local real hi fi store and have heard the”great” components and eventually I’ll get there. Thanks, and looking forward to your replies. Twodogs112.

128x128twodogs112

Surprised no one has suggested the AudioLab 6000N. I have one and feel the sound quality is brilliant, and its not expensive. Wonderful DAC in it.

If you just want to get a quick "feel" for streaming, get a bluetooth receiver like the "1Mii Bluetooth 5.0" on Amazon for dirt cheap (under $100) and you can have it tomorrow. Then just bluetooth cast your music from your phone to it hooked up to any analog in on your receiver. I started with one and was great intro to streaming. I've upgraded to the Audiolab 6000N now, but the bluetooth receiver is now hooked up in the garage system to "rock-out" on. 

Blue sound node now has usb Output  which is the preferred input method for my dac.   Have run ultra rendu for a year now for qobuz/roon and have no appreciable difference with 2000 units.  Small unit with power supply seems expensive compared to larger competition.   Assume the money goes into the circuit design and parts and not on the case

Why not try something like this? Affordable, and the performance may surprise you. All you need is a Raspberry Pi, the DAC board and a case of some sort is helpful.  You can get into it for about $200 and rival units at multiples of that cost.

 

 

Hi

Another vote for Blue Sound node. But definitely upgrade the power cord. Made a stunning improvement. I have two of them. Started with just BS Node. Later added Yggy DAC to one. 
I have Tidal and Qobuz. I listen to Qobuz more. Excellent HR selection of music. 
enjoy.

joe