Higher End DACs

@erik_squires, Currently no DAC being used.

"Its my first foray into digital streaming and I have no need for a CD player." OP

+1 to @lalitk 's advice and perspective on his post re. this >

“I would be curious what ’level’ of DAC would you say is commensurate with my general Mcintosh system of c1100/611 and B&W 800 d3 speakers?

is the MSB line/T+A 3100 overkill? is it the next step up that would be lost in my current system, above?”

@ufguy73  

Two general principles [highly simplified] you are addressing (per your recent posts) are system wide component 'parity'  AND 'synergy.'  

Since a DAC or Streamer/DAC or DAC/Pre or Streamer/DAC/Pre is upstream, you are correct to push for / stretch for a higher level component.

You can start addressing parity and synergy (if need be) once you are comfortable with the new component in your current system. 

Forming future / 'idealized' system level goals to guide your component choices will be helpful.

@ufguy73, People who love listening to music realize that it is a lot easier to put together a really good system when you choose it based on HOW it sounds to "your ears".   We do not all hear things the same, we do not all have same desires of a system's sonic delivery and character and everyone's environment is different.  In addition, everyone has a different budget meaning you choose an audio system depending on how it sounds AND how much it costs.  

I suggest you listen to your audio system, AGAIN, and see what happens.  Does the music move you? Does the music sound great? Does the music get your attention? OR, does the music sound dull and flat? Does the bass sound okay or not?  How is the imaging?  Does the music have feeling or is it dull?  Does the music sound clear and with more musical detail?  How do the vocals sound?  If your audio system sound great, you are done!  If not, then you need to examine your components and decide what change, if any, needs to be made.  Sometimes maybe all you need is a cable upgrade.  

If you are unable to make these decisions, then go listen to live music to hear what good sound sounds like.  AND, also, go to your local audio retailer and listen to their systems to help decide what you like and do not like.  Visit your friends and listen to their audio systems.   You need to audition these components and decided what sounds you like.  If you are still UNABLE to decide, it means you are NOT ready. This means you need to do more listening.  If possible, see if you can borrow a component to see how it sounds in your listening room.  And, most important, do not rush the process.   I hope this helps.