External DAC?

I recently upgraded from a Node 2 to a Mytek Manhattan. Originally planned to get the Manhattan w/o the network card and use the streamer in the Node but Mytek was adding in the network card for free (normally $1200). I played it both ways and found that to me the Mytek network card is noticeably better than the Node streamer but the much much larger difference was the Manhattan DAC (with either streamer). The Manhattan  appears to be out of your price range but I’ve been very impressed with my Mytek experience. 
Bottomline is that I think you would benefit greatly SQ wise using the Node 2i as a streamer with a DAC like the Mytek Brooklyn which is more in your price range. 
I hope whichever way you go you enjoy the journey. 

I have a Node 2i and Topping D90.  Very nice sound.  Dynamic with better sound stage, better bass to name a few.  I think the D 90 sounds better bypassing pre amp i.e. volume all the way up. I think.it is hard to beat for for the $1050 i have invested in both plus $40 coax.

Great input from the community on all the possibilities!  I have both Schiit Modi3 and Topping D50S and I would a very slight edge to the Modi3 although Topping is so rich in features (Bluetooth 5.0 including AptXHD, LDAC codecs) plus Native DSD to DSD512 (on USB).  And yes, APOS is SUPER easy to work with and the shipping turnaround time (3 days max)  is absolutely amazing coming all the way from China.  I even broke down and got their accompanying linear power supply and there is a small improvement on both the Modi3 and D50S.

I am seriously contemplating on getting a Bluesound Vault2i as I would like to finally store all my CD's in a central repository for significantly easier access but it's internal DAC is definitely an issue when I was demo'ing in a store.  

Also, any thoughts on DSD vs PCM ? I don't think Bluesound plays DSD's natively though.  I downloaded a few albums in both  formats and frankly, have a hard time discerning the difference.  Also, I can't tell much audible difference between DSD 64 vs DSD128 vs DSD256 vs DSD512 of the same recording...  

Much appreciate feedback.

Very happy user of RME ADI-2 DAC FS here. Significant improvement over Node 2i's built in DAC! I also use it w/ headphones and IEMs. Pls check out reviews on B&H Photo, where I bought (and reviewed) one. 

I used to have Node 2 with Shunyata power cable, AQ coffee Coax cable to Mytek Brooklyn DAC+ With SBooster and a nice power cable. Sounded good- all things considered. Now I have a Lumin S1 with Shunyata digital power cable and it blows away my Node/ Mytek setup. Speakers REALLY disappear Soundstage wider, taller, better imaging and separation. The money of a Node 2 + DAC, SBooster, + power and coax cables is somewhat in the ballpark of a Used Lumin S1.