Almost embarrassed to ask, but...


I’m seriously considering a high(ish) end used pre amp as my next upgrade. Currently using Marantz AVP, and looking for the next step up in sq for 2 channel. I have an Oppo UDP205 for discs, but also use a lot of streaming music. The Oppo has the DAC, but I’d need to get the streaming music into it. From the Oppo I’d take analog out to the pre amp. I can use a tablet, but I’d prefer a stand alone unit plugged into the Oppo. Also, what is the best connection for digital output of the streamer to digital in on the Oppo?
english210
Maybe a Hegel P20 or Benchmark LA4. The Hegel has dedicated Home Theater bypass inputs.
The Oppo 205 has usb inputs as well. I have a Oppo 203, so can’t add much additional to the conversation. 
I would definitely consider the Oppo UDP205 audiophile grade piece of equipment, and is quite versatile as well.  it’s possible to stream music from your computer via the USB DAC, use it as Roon endpoint, or stream via your network using the Oppo Media Contol app.  It’s quite acceptable to use it as a preamp, however in my particular case I did not use it that way (connected it to an integrated amplifier via the XLR balances outputs.
Gorm
Oppo and Marantz are both directly addressable as streamers. Both use UPNP and HEOS. I use both and often compare them. I find my Marantz 8805SE performs better than the Oppo205SE.
I've also wired the Oppo’s analog XLR stereo out to other amps Including the Marantz as analog stereo inputs, and using RCA to my PassLabs XA25.
All whilst happily streaming Tidal via the mConnect Lite app.
And I’ve used the Pioneer N70ae Streamer and a PS Audio PerfectWave DAC with Network Bridge Streaner DAC in this HT system. And earlier, a Cocktail Audio X40 Streamer.
All in, direct to Marantz via HEOS or mConnect Lite is best for using my HT System as a music player.
I have a separate stereo system with streaming, SACD and other sources.
I stream to my Oppo 205 using a lap top- USB -Roon/Tidal-into a tube preamp then into a solid state amp and it really enjoy the music!  I’ve tried the Oppo 205 direct into the amp but there is something about the tube preamp that is more statisfying.