Streaming DAC recommendation

dCS Bartok Apex……..absolutely an endgame component!

@audiobuddy if you’re using a fanless Mac Mini purely as a Roon core and not running it as a streamer or a household computer, it’s more than adequate to serve as Roon core. 
Aurender, as it’s been said above, is not Roon ready. If you’re planning to use Roon, I highly recommend a used Lumin U2 or U1 streamers (not the mini versions of those though).  Auralic is a good streamer but sounds best with its UI without Roon. That puts you at around $3k. Add a DAC like the Cord Qutest if you don’t require XLRs. If you need XLR connectivity, PS Audio DSD DAC can be had around $2k now. That will keep you in your budget and will be a kick ass digital front end. 
 

I would keep your preamp in the mix with one of the streamer/dac combos recommended here as all are very good. i've read and heard with my own ears that a good preamp adds some magic than just a day as volume control. 

I would keep your preamp in the mix with one of the streamer/dac combos recommended here as all are very good. i've read and heard with my own ears that a good preamp adds some magic than just a dac as volume control.

@lnitm 

+1

@audiobuddy 

There is a synergy between McIntosh components, and removing the C2600 may be detrimental. Also, as recommended by some members, the Bricasti and Meitner are fine components, and I doubt that the Cambridge will surpass their performance.

Lastly, I believe your C2600 has the DA1 DAC card? I have a C2700 with a DA2 module. An upgrade to the DA2 may be the cheapest way out, and then just add a killer streamer. If you want to outdo the DA2 module, you need about $5K on an outboard DAC. I have an outboard DAC that retails for 12X the cost of the DA2 module. It is better all around than the DA2, but I am gobsmacked as to how good trickle-down DAC technology has become and how much value the DA2 brings to the table.