What to upgrade next.

Audio Advisor has the Node 2i for $100 off, now at $449.

I take it you like your speakers. I suggest you upgrade your source and also replace the Denon AVR and and possibly the amplifier. That would improve what you are getting from them.

I would start with the purchase of a streamer. The Bluesound Node is within budget. They run $500. The internal DAC is OK, however many replace it with an external DAC of choice.  This you could also consider after getting familiar with the Node.

The 1st question I have, are we talking about a 2 channel system for music?. I believe your Denon and Carver amp are meant for theater use. If so, I would consider selling both the Denon and Carver and purchasing an 2-channel integrated amplifier. An integrated is much easier on the budget than separates. However, you could also just replace the Denon with a preamp and continue to use the Carver amp if it works well with your speakers.

There are many threads here on AG concerning streamers, many specific to the Node, as well as integrated amplifiers. I would be inclined to search these threads.  I would recommend considering the the used market for amplification.  

Good luck in your quest.

 

Well given you are now considering a 10K system the 'plot thickens'. A very good system can be had at this price level.

I have a couple questions that will help in providing advise.
What is the room size where this system is to be placed?
What is the timeframe for completing this system?
What computer and file type are you using?

There are many ways one can approach this. I also started towards a 10K system, spent 8-9K and ended up with a 15Kish one. Bought used or dealer demo equipment, made my own room treatments, did much research. Now working towards 25K. As I have a system that truly satisfies, I started my upgrade path with the source. I believe in your situation this approach would serve you well also. In my case I felt the need to get a DAC and transport for CD playback in addition to using MAC computers as servers. I also have a DVD player for movies, however playback is via 2-channel sound only. I not much into multichannel playback for movies as I don't wish to build a theater room. I find 2-channel for movies to be quite satisfactory in my music room. 

I have and still use a Macbook Pro and a MAC Mini as a server and streamer. As a server I rip CDs as AIFF files (equivalent to WAV)  and play back using the Channel D Pure Music program. As a streamer I only have used Pandora or Spotify as I stream to find new music and purchase the CD. I play back CDs via transport and DAC. There are other streaming sources , Tidal and Qobuz are popular, that stream CD quality or higher rez music. I would advise that you research servers and streamers under the digital topic here on AG. I think what you will ultimately want is a server for file playback that also serves to stream. 

My advise to you is to 1st research the use of server/streamers as your primary music source as that seems to be your interest. I would bank most of your 2-3K while researching this and in the meantime purchase a used  budget DAC to play into your Denon AVR. Knowing more about your computer and flies would help here. 

Following that I would get out and listen to as many speaker amp combinations to get a feel for what truly moves you. Keep in mind that speakers play into a room. Pairing them to your room, and treating the room as much as possible to play well with the speakers goes along way towards getting the most out of your system. Following that your amplifier must mate well with your speakers. I would look for speakers that are at least 87dB sensitive and not difficult impedance wise. Another area to research.

Save your money and be positioned to purchase the right product at the right price that fits your predetermined audio scheme. Having an understanding of what your want is paramount to getting it.

Again enjoy your quest. Let's keep the dialog going.

Good move on Tidal subscription. I would get it as well if I had better internet connection. I think the Node will serve you well. May want to get a external DAC as an upgrade down the road. 

Given your system is for audio and video, I think your next move might be to purchase a preamp with HT passthrough. You can use the pre into 2 channels of your amp for  R and L and pass signal to the Denon for the center and rear channels when watching movies. Provided the right connection are provided on the Denon. I once owned a Jolida Fusion tube preamp that had this function. Did not use the HT feature but it was a nice unit which sold retail at $1350. Sold it here on AG recently for $750. Ran it with a SS amplifier.  You are wise to take advantage of the AG marketplace. I have used it extensively over the past 9 years. Made some friends along the way.

One thing I should have suggested from the start is to recommend the book "The Complete Guide to High End Audio' by Robert Harley. Great reference book. Runs about $50.

Stay safe, continue your homework, and enjoy the ride.