From separate streamer and DAC to al-in-one suggestion

@kray

Lumin T2 is a easy recommendation since you’re already familiar with Lumin and it has what appears to be an outstanding DAC based on Sabre ESS Pro Dual Chips. Given the used price difference between U1 mini with s/booster and T2, T2 is a no brainer. The thing is, you can weigh in on suggestions made here all day long but won’t truly know which DAC is going to sound best until you start auditioning them in the context of your system.

As far as Merging goes, +player doesn’t show up as often as +nadac (dac only version).

PS Audio DirectStream, DAC with network bridge

@testrun getting a SGC i5 might be my next small step. Could add it to my network rack and move Roon off my Mac mini. 

 

One of the best moves I made was getting my ROONS core off a MAC mini and onto a SGC ST.  It might be a small step but its significant.   I put it in the back of my cabinet  , dont even know it's there.

Unless you’re looking for a big change in sonic character from your current DAC I’d recommend just upgrading the streamer and get more goodness from what you already have.  I don’t think you mentioned what Ethernet and USB cables you’re using, but those make a big difference too while you’re in upgrade mode. 

Lumin D2 is excellent for a streamer/DAC and with one setting you can be up and running with your existing stored library. 
$2300 is list, and “open box deals” might get you 10% off.