@Op
I applied this approach initially with the Node 2i and I do not notice any obvious difference between music on my PLEX Server- WD PR2100 - versus IDAL on my streamer DAC.
My server with PLEX installed is connected into my router via ethernet as is my stream/DAC.
I find I stream much more than I use my server - I can't recall the last time I bought a CD - mid 2000s.
The upgrading from the Node 2i to Moon 280D did make a huge sonic improvement. Lots of options at $2-3.5k price point. Part of the reason I bought the Moon unit is they advertise they design upgradability into their equipment.
And my stored music isn't changing format - so really the only value I get out of new technology capabilities is with new music in high resolution format.
Hope this is constructive.