Comparing streamer/DACs between $5-10k

I guess im just wondering if an entry level Aurender 200 is the Best Buy at $6300, or should I spend a little more and get something that wows.  Or spend less (HiFi rose or other) and basically achieve the same.

I own the HiFi Rose 150b and I’m a fan. The features I really like include the apps to tune in global radio stations, and the ability to stream 4K YouTube to a nearby television, while playing the audio, typically concert footage, through my system.  I also really like the large display, and I find the menus to be intuitive and helpful for using the device and setting it up.  I find I use the remote control app more than the remote control itself, but both are fine. If you’re buying it because of the meters, don’t, I find them more of a distraction and typically don’t display them.

As for the sound quality, I’m not the type of audiophile who can provide a lot of flowery descriptions. Though I will say the sound is very clear and detailed. For my tastes, I like things on the warm side, and while I think my overall system has something to do with this, the sound from the 150b is brighter than my analog, and I am looking to tame that.  I’ll be looking at cables, and maybe putting a tube buffer either in a tape loop or in line with the streamer.

Overall, I’m a satisfied customer 

That’s great you have the 150B and are happy.  Did you ever compare how it sounded sonically against other (more expensive) streamer DACs?

@rkfaberdds no, I didn’t compare. Bought online, sight unseen.  I live in a very rural area. I tend to research stuff quite a bit before buying. And also, I don’t have any audiophile friends with big budgets (relatively speaking) that I can hang out with and compare notes/sounds.

So I don’t have any comparative data for you.

Ok, for those who advocate for a separate DAC-like Denafrips terminator2 or Weiss 501….

Could this play & pair nicely with a lower price (older?) Aurender streamer?