Bluesound Node for Hegel 190?

The NODE digitally connected to the H190 will be superior to the Airplay solution you're using now, but still not as good as you want to be. Since you're already connecting the H190 to your network, try the free trial of Roon. The H190 via Roon will sound better than the Bluesound supplying the stream to the H190. If you aren't interested in Roon licensing, something like the Innuos PULSEmini is an outstanding performer for the money and uses their excellent Sense app. Yes, it is more expensive than the NODE, but still reasonable. I see you're in Canada and we're a Canadian dealer. Feel free to reach out to us if you like.

Hardwire that mofo

Node will best Airplay, DAC in Hegel better than DAC in Node...source is important too, not just DAC...

Airplay casts Tidal wirelessly to my router; the router is connected to the Hegel via CAT6 Ethernet cable, so Airplay is a combination of wireless and Ethernet. I want to start with a new streamer in the $1000 range. If I get an improvement in sound I’ll next try a new dac. My system is really simple at this point.

thanks for any advice.

Try Cambridge audio cxn v2 retails for $1000.