15k for streamer and dac....how much on each?

@knighttodd

As long as you pair LinQ with one of the available AQUA DAC’s via I2S, you will get the best sound from LinQ. I wanted to try LinQ in my system but its lack of USB support, proprietary I2S connectivity and max resolution upto DSD128 were the limiting features that prompted me to look elsewhere.

If do pursue LinQ, make sure to get it with HQPlayer Core + NAA module.

If I were swapping equipment in and out frequently, I wouldn't spend top dollar for something that isn't going to stay long-term. You could probably try out some of the newer all-in-one DAC/Streamer combos out there for not a huge investment to see if you want to commit to the streaming side of hi-fi. Then upgrade over time.

@kcpellethead 

Thank you.  If I had 15K a used Bartok Apex would be my goal.

I went 2:1 DAC to streamer with the same budget.  Could not be happier with the synergy between my Ayre QX-5 Twenty DAC and Lumin U2 streamer.

I honestly believe that the majority of the money should go towards the dac. The rest for the streamer. 
 

I’m not sure of the synergy. Though from what I’ve read the Bricasti M1, in conjunction with the n150 or n200 (aurender)  would probably suit most listeners well. 
 

As other post have mentioned, Your source is the Dac, everything else is second fiddle. 
 

Best luck.