New to Streaming

The Bluesound Node or X is a decent starting point.  I actually preferred the Eversolo DMP-6 (by a large margin).  Both have an internal DAC with the DMP-6 being much better.  I prefer a separate DAC, but that pushes your budget past $1k.  For $1500 you can have a decent streamer and DAC (I use a Schiit Bifrost 2/64).

Consider buying a quality component used here on Audiogon, or on Audio Mart, or HiFi Shark.  Less money up front and potentially some great pieces.  But you do lose out on some warranty support.  I go about 50/50 depending on the piece.

Good luck and have fun.

No.  They’ve been saying they’re implementing hi-res streaming for years but it’s never materialized and not clear how good it’ll be if/when they do or how expensive it’ll be.  The favorite hi-res streaming service here is Qobuz, so I’d give that a try first and they offer a free trial.  Plus I think it’s less than $11/month with a year subscription so it’s also a relative bargain IMHO.  The EverSolo DMP-A6 streamer is getting high marks, but if it’s me I’d pay up for an Innuos Pulse Mini given the company’s pedigree and excellent software and customer service.  Hope this helps. 

https://www.amazon.com/Eversolo-DMP-A6-Streamers-Streaming-Touchscreen/dp/B0C48P4TQT/ref=asc_df_B0C48P4TQT/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=663276270389&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=8411480957202422990&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9004289&hvtargid=pla-2186360413347&psc=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI2Y_CmLnYgQMV_5xaBR0d5A4GEAQYASABEgLlAfD_BwE

https://jaguaraudio.com/product/pulsemini-streaming-network-player-by-innuos/

Qobuz is the best high quality streaming service. Also, they have over half a million albums in high def. Tidal is second… then it drops off.

The Bluesound streamer is probably the most common budget streamer recommended. I would also consider @soix ’s recommendations.

Like soix and ghd said above, qobuz is much superior.  I also like soix's recommendations for streamers and also I have a Allo USBridge signature in my spare system that is good for the money.  with a bluesound, you get a pretty good streamr but also an onboard DAC which is a bit of wasted money since it isn't a good dac so you'll be using an outboard DAC.  The onboard DAC is, however,  listenable while you find a better DAC if you need that.

Jerry

Spotify has threatened to go lossless for years.

Look elsewhere

I like Qobuz best.

I always point first timers to the Bluesound. Then you decide what features you prefer. Most all OS’s are superior. Don’t worry about the DAC, the streamer alone is worth it, especially if you get a decent buy on a used one. A Node is the first of my 6 streamers, all in use.

One is an Allo. Not for beginners.