Connection options from Node to Denafrips Iris to Pontus

Soix,

  Does the Pulsemini support MQA from Tidal?  Is this a "real" consideration in your view?  Does it support Roon?  I am an absolute neophyte about Roon, so I have no idea if it's something that is worth going after.  

Tidal library is gradually undergoing a conversion from MQA to Max which is the same as Qobuz hires. I wouldn’t make MQA support a requirement. 
What’s the budget for the new streamer?
 

The $1500 for the Innuos Pulsemini is definitely streching it to the absolute limit. But then, I don't want to regret not getting as good as possible and then wanting to upgrade later on. 

Lumin U1 Mini for around a grand?

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650074852-lumin-mini-u1-black-streamer/

UI is not the best but sounds pretty good. 

The U1 I have was considerably improved with the Sbooster power supply. The Node worked well with a USB out into the Iris and then out into the Pontus via I2S. The sound was exceptional. However, once you have the Iris, it ONLY has a USB input.