Looking for an all-in-one just-add-speakers streamer for my son to take to college

Squarely in the "budget" camp... if they are musically inclined, get them a nice harmonica. If not, a kazoo.

Or, splurge on one of these:

https://theaudiofactory.com/collections/bluesound/products/bluesound-powernode-edge-compact-wireless-music-streaming-amplifier

Audiofactory has occasional sales at 15% off.

One thing to ask is whether he will be in a dorm or in an apartment? If in a dorm, I’d opt for the cheapest option discussed here - maybe the Bluesound Edge or Powernode (or even cheaper, one of those class-D streamer/amps by Arylic). My reasoning is that if you get him something "too good" or "too expensive and flashy" looking, it is very likely to be stolen if in a dorm room.

Been there, done that. Won’t do it again. Unless you consider $1200 "disposable chump change", it is worth considering.

Yep. Nobody steals a kazoo.

Easy... I highly recommend the Cabasse Reilto.  Spectacular in a small package that will fill a shockingly large space and play college LOUD.  Stream from your phone and your done!

awesome advice here. Thanks!