DAC/Preamp quandry

I've been with CD Source for more than ten years, and for eight years using a standalone CDT > DAC. 

Very recently, I decided to take the plunge and look at making changes to the Digital Source, which has led me to DAC's.

For your own purposes, there are DAC's now available with a 'built-in' Pre-Amp. There is review information that suggests built-in Pre's are quite capable on certain DAC models. 

The following is the result of a search on your behalf:

Top DACs with Preamplifier Functionality

1. Entry-Level / Desktop

• Topping DX3 Pro+: A highly regarded, budget-friendly DAC/Amp that doubles as a preamp. It features an ES9038Q2M DAC and Bluetooth support.
• FiiO K11 R2R: A compact desktop unit featuring a fully differential resistor array for a warm, organic sound, with switchable NOS/OS modes and pre-amp volume control.

2. Mid-Range

• Emotiva XDA-3: A fully balanced reference DAC and analog preamplifier. It includes dedicated analog inputs, an upgraded volume control architecture, and an excellent headphone amp.
• Fosi Audio ZH3: An all-in-one desktop device offering balanced circuits, EQ controls, and multiple outputs perfect for driving power amps or active speakers.

3. High-End

• Chord DAVE: A reference-level FPGA DAC that operates as a standalone preamp, offering massive detail, multiple digital inputs, and high-impedance headphone compatibility. 
• DAC 200: Known for incredible separation and build quality, this unit pairs a high-res discrete DAC with a fully analogue, high-end preamplifier section.

Important Considerations

• Digital vs Analogue Volume: Many entry-level DACs use "digital volume control," which reduces bit depth at low volumes. If you want uncompromised dynamic range, look for units with dedicated analogue resistor ladder volume controls. 
• Input Flexibility: Check if the device has analogue inputs (like RCA or XLR). Many DACs only have digital inputs (USB, Coax, Optical), so if you want to connect a turntable or CD player, you need a DAC with true analogue pass-through. 
• Community Consensus: Enthusiasts on platforms generally agree that high-end, purpose-built DAC-Preamps can effectively replace a traditional analogue preamp, provided impedance matching is carefully managed. 

I think @gkelly makes a very fair suggestion.  The Wiim products are very well reviewed and people love them.  
While I cannot speak to your specific Eversolo products, I have the T8 and the Z10.  I really like them.  So far zero issues.  Critically important to me is the ability to side load apps - specifically SiriusXM.  

The app you use to interface with the streamer is very important.  The Eversolo app  is really good.  Depending on your streaming service you may be able stream directly to the device which does make the devices streaming system a little less important though.  
 

Good luck!
 

i don’t know about your area, but in LA there are lots of new WiiM ultra’s listed on facebook for less than 250.  I’m thinking of picking one up for my father-in-law who streams all day with just his laptop's headphone jack into a beautiful tube/horn system I helped him put together.  If he wants to upgrade later, let him, but for that cheap an entry point into network streaming DAC I don’t see how you can go wrong. 

Between the A6 (not sure about the MKII) and the Wiim Ultra, save your money and get the Ultra. The A8 would be a meaningful upgrade, but as you mentioned, it costs significantly more.  Note: BS Node Nano beats Ultra.

If you really like the Eversolo house sound (which tends to be on the brighter side) or if it pairs particularly well with your system, consider getting the T8 along with a capable DAC. That combination can elevate your system to another level and easily outperform the Wiim.

That said, once you're in that budget range, it also opens the door to other compelling options, such as the Rivo+ and the Innuos Zen 3.

Skip the WiiM.  It’s a budget-oriented all-in-one with a basic volume control--it is not for resolving systems.   It’s cheap and a good temporary solution.   

The A8 (which is what I use until I buy an Innuos) is in a different universe than the WiiM and offers a superior DAC/streamer/preamp built around flagship AKM silicon chipset, a heavier chassis, and a fully balanced analog stage.  It’s a fine mid-tier solution.  If it’s beyond your budget today, perhaps you find one used, save-up until you can purchase new, or if you’re impatient, use Affirm to purchase today (and you may be eligible for 0% interest).  

The A8 is the better value.  Life’s too short to start at the bottom.  There’s a CPO unit on TMR for $1699 which is close enough to the price of a new unit, that I would just buy new.  

My main point:  Research and make an informed decision.  Use AI to help you understand.  Here’s an AI comparison (read in two columns):