Advice regarding streaming please.

I've asked this question myself. Here's where I have wound up based upon what folks with expensive streamers say: A better streamer can make a difference -- but IF your streamer is decent (Node 2i or above) make sure everything else is as good as you can make it or the improvement will be marginal. Since most people don't do much with room treatments or power, that would be the most likely place to adjust before dropping a lot of money on a streamer. Others may disagree, but this is where the argument rests for me until I can try better streamers in my maxed out setup.

I have been studying streaming relentlessly for over 2 yrs.  I knew nothing.  So this what I would recommend before you spend lots of money.

1.  Ethernet cable from router to streamer. 

2.  You can add a network switch to help clean up any noise

3.  You can add an ENO to your ethernet line.  About 700 dollars.

4.  Good power cord to DAC and streamer

My opinion is you have very very nice equipment.  I would optimize what you have before I tear it apart and start over.  All these tweaks clean up noise of different types.  All the above can be done for 2000 or less. You might be surprised.  

To be quite definative, it depends.  For many streaming is the primary source. If that is so then I would think the streaming device quality should be conmensurate with downstream equipment.  

+1 daledeee1, based on my having followed threads herein I would optomize the signal going to the streamer prior to upgrading it.  

All this based from one who has streamed only from computer and do little of it. I am considering the purchase of my 1st true streamer. A process I started 8 months ago. I will likely go with a modest but quality one, most likely the recent Node. My next upgrade will likely be a new transport. If I find I streaming to become a major source then I would optomize signal to the streamer.

I own the Audiolab 6000N and I'm very happy with it's build quality, streaming features and sound quality With it's user interface I can control all streaming services (there are many) through the DTS Play-Fi app using my smart phone I do use an external DAC the Exogal Comet Plus, but it does come with respectable internal DAC

Don’t get me wrong, the Audiolab is not a bad streamer, but I know the rest of the gear is capable of better.