What streamer?

If you want to stream Apple Music there aren't as many options. Given you're also using iTunes, it kind of sounds like you're best off getting an Apple TV.

the Apple universe is not the bar to better sound. nor is it a problem for streaming.

an apple TV is not the answer at all. unless it is a second gen ver. after the second gen, all ATV use only HDMI outputs. no other interface for audio out. the second gen had an optical out and HDMI. now only HDMI.

the trick is to get the files converted into analog so the amps du jour can make pretty noises.

if no possibility of ethernet connectivity is available, the converter has to rely upon WY FY.

I’m not up on all the streamer options out there and there are DACs which allow connection via wy fy… and or LAN… I think.

for full wireless connectivity folks here tend to mention Blue sound Node 2 as a starting point for $500 retail. I’ve not found another less expensive option yet, and there are those whose fidelity are significantly better, but at higher prices.

another moderately priced path could be to use a later model Oppo as 100 or 200 series, a DLNA or UPNP player, if whatever app can see it, ala J River, ROON, Fubar 2K for MAC, etc. Oppo also says there are free third party server apps which work on MAC platforms. and their disc spinners.

those are the two least pricey choices as I understand it. I’m sure there are others for more $$$$.

the likely prefered path is getting a D/A in the mix to feed your amps. even with the BSN II feeding its signal to a DAC would be at the very least a step I’d have to employ even if it were for an office rig.

maybe Shitte has a solution that will work for you.

good luck.

Yeah, at it's price point the Bluesound Node 2i is hard to beat. Great feature set, including AirPlay 2. Use it as is and add a DAC later if the urge strikes. I have the Node 2 (now in my work system) and used it for a couple of years in my main system. Coupling with a nicer DAC than it's on-board one can elevate the sound quality substantially. Best of luck with your search.

Thanks to all who have responded. I went to a local stereo store and they demonstrated the Cambridge Audio Azure 851NQ network player along with the 851W which allowed WiFi streaming from a local iTunes library as well as Apple Music. It was touted as extremely easy to set up with little hiccups. This would exclude the need for a separate pre-amp as the 851NQ is an all in one streamer, DAC and preamp. I also saw on their website the equivalent higher end Edge NQ and W models. The Azure line has pretty favorable feedback. Has anyone had experience with the Edge network player and amp?