This can go in a lot of directions. But having a clean front end still goes a long way. I’ve a Volumio Rivo (standard, not the plus) and it really shines now that I’ve included a switch before it. As well as a good galvanic filter just ahead of it. This one works so incredibly well! I used to think it didn’t matter a great deal until I’d added those steps. Don’t know if the plus version is better about isolating electrical noise? But the Eversolo T8 does have an optical solution as well. Not to mention amazing interface software and I/O. But yeah, unless you really don’t care about the difference, cabling is still sounding better than WiFi until you get into some really pricey streamers.
Having a good transport before a separate dac is still VERY effective and affordable compared to a high quality all in one solution.
With dacs gettting insanely good for the money these days, even a FIIO k13 or Schiit Mimir after something like a T8 or Rivo + might be outstanding. The Schiit pre offerings also seem a great choice for the money. But also look into great used pre’s. I’m still smitten with the SPL Elector I got for around half retail about 5 yrs ago (the one I have only does balanced out unfortunately).
In any case, I’d suggest getting a mid to higher tier transport, quality pre, affordable (but really good) dac, and then wait for these constant dac wars to turn out something so amazing that eventually a $500-1k dac will outperform a 5k dac. I know that sounds like an exaggeration, but that is almost the case as of late.
My final disclaimer, all I’m saying here might just be overtaken in about 6 months to a year when the companies that produce all-in-ones get more and more ridiculous with their offerings? Who really knows!