2-3k budget - adding DAC/Server to Bluesound Node?

I'm continuing to evolve.  Currently use a NODE into a Mytek Manhattan II DAC.  Will likely upgrade NODE to an Innuos streamer once new models are launched.  

I'll tell you what I have (and like):

* sonicTransporter i9 (a music server running Roon and HQ Player)

* Matrix Audio Element X (an integrated streamer/DAC/preamp directly connected to my Benchmark AHB2 power amp)

The latter would have been within your budget (barely) when I bought it new, but the new Element X2 (with touch screen and HDMI) now is over $4K.  If you can find a new or used X1 within budget, it'd be worth considering. It uses one of the most advanced ESS Sabre DAC chips and FWIW does very well on ASR tests.

Good alternatives in its price range include other Matrix Audio,  HiFi Rose, NAD, Cambridge Audio, and Mytek products.  I doubt there is a big noticeable SQ difference among these, so the feature sets may be more relevant.  But some listeners may be hearing differences in sound stage, imaging, and bass response among similar products at this price level.

I initially added a denefrips Ares II to my node 2i - somewhat decent improvement. Then i upgraded to the Pontus II and huge improvement. That’s about your budget and SQ will be absolutely better

I also did a power supply upgrade of the node with questionable improvement if anything at all. But at least the power supply kinda looks cool on the rack!

I have no library, so I don't need a vault. My bluesound Node N130 is connected to a Gustard x26 pro dac via audioquest carbon 48 I2s connection. Total for both would be about $2,000. Doubt you could do any better for that amount of money. Mine sounds way better than I ever thought possible with streaming.

Check that. The I2s connection is for my CD transport to dac. Streamer to dac is UBS DH Labs silver sonic. Still about same price.