Streamer Value Question Innous vs Bluesound

The DAC in any of these (including the OPPO) is adequate, but not really good. You should pick a streamer/server then get a better DAC later, maybe a re-clocker too

Does the OP intend to stream Tidal only?  Or convert CDs as well?
if stream only then you don’t need the Vault2, the Node2 wii handle all.  If need storage I would also favor keeping the files on a separate location.  I did transfer about 0.75tb from a Vault to a NAS but it wasn’t easy.
if the OP intends to continue to play CDs I would put the money first in a good DAC and add the other stuff later.

I’m in danger of sounding like a broken record on this issue, but in my experience, the streamer/server is at least as important as the DAC and likely more so. I enjoyed a greater improvement in sound quality by improving the streamer than I did from the DAC.  

The Bluesound Node 2i is a terrific value - a killer unit from a utility standpoint (I have one in a system).  But, if sound quality is the goal, I wouldn’t be building around the Vault or the Node because even if you upgrade the DAC significantly, the end result will still be limited.  My $.02. Of course, YMMV.

Thanks for all the tips and expertise. So the streamer does in fact
have an audible impact on SQ as most other components?

mahler-I do intend to covert my few cds to files besides streaming with a
hirez source. Tidal, Qobuz or Amazon. Undecided yet. I may choose
the service with a real support department as opposed to a member
forum.

Would it be difficult to keep a copy of all my downloaded music
on a separate drive for security? Like a thumb drive? I understand
they hold a lot more nowadays.

highpeak-what is a nuc?

mgrif- which streamer did you buy?

Is the Lumin line of streamers a better value than Innuos?

Thanks!

Happy 4th!

NUC small form factor PC
if you go the Roon route you will need something to host the core.
https://www.intel.co.uk/content/www/uk/en/products/boards-kits/nuc.html