Higher End DACs

not yet - I am getting some other components installed and want to break those in a bit before demoing some of the DACs that have interested me - definitely going to need something going in though

Back on topic, I’ll echo @mikelavigne ’s point about pairing the DAC with a top-notch streamer and, I would add, a signal rejuvenator /re-clocker.

I recently auditioned top-class DACs (see here). The improvement brought upon by the streamer (i.e. "source" signal) & the Timing device that followed was not subtle!
In fact, one could tone down the DAC budget to make room for a re-clocker & server!

I might be wrong but I believe ufguy73 was interested in streaming from the internet not from a server since he didn't have CDs to put on one. If you're going the server route then yes it can make a difference but streaming from the internet a server isn't in the equation unless you intend to buy downloaded music or CDs to RIP to it. 

Just to clarify further, OP is a newbie as far digital / streaming goes. One box solution like DCS Bartok or Lumin X1 or Aurender A30 will allow simple setup. All of the above are loaded with thoughtful features to wet his appetite.

If the goal is to build a SOTA digital setup then something like full stack of MSB Premier or DCS Rossini which runs deep into $30K price range.

You can always go the ‘separates’ route with streamer and DAC which gives the maximum flexibility to pick and choose the best possible components based on features and personal preferences.

Aurender, Innuos and Lumin offers the best stand alone streamers. The latter two gives Roon option in addition to their proprietary apps.

My top 5 DAC’s to consider, EMM Labs DA2, AQUA Formula xHD, Berkeley Reference Series 3, DCS Rossini and Brinkman Nyquist MKII.
Cheers!

good list. would love to see a list of best dacs in the 10-15k range