How to set up volume control on a DAC without a preamp

@audiotroy It seems your data on Roon is incorrect.  It works with any endpoint device. 

passive pre with remote it is. Khozmo passive pre got lots good review.

https://khozmo.com/

@lanx0003 

Different AlbumPlayer.  It's still active and sounds fantastic.  https://albumplayer.ru/

There is a learning curve to get the most out of the upsampleing  but the DSD sounded pretty good on my previous DAC.   It is a very basic player but I guess there is a way to integrate it into other players.  I've never tried it.

I have the original SAGA.  At the time when I purchased it the SAGA +was out but  according to Schitt didn't sound better just had a better featured volume control.  As for now I just get up and turn the knob which is a pain but probably healthier.

I would buy a great preamp first , it’s crucial to the overall tone/ sound of your system.  It does the switching and drives your amp.  I think a lot of times the Amp gets a higher priority than the preamp and to me that’s backwards.  
 

Then get a good Streamer /DAC  or even better a decent streamer and excellent DAC.   
 

Go to Schiit audio for $280 you can get a remote controlled resistive ladder relay controlled preamp  shocking but true and for the $$ a good product 

the Freya only $899 if you want a tube preamp .

these are budget and solid warranty.