Upgrading from Holo Red, need i2s, external clock input & HQplayer NAA

@jbuddha882 The Holo Red is a very well engineered device and provides solid quality and ample capabilities at its price point. That being said, its compact footprint and low price carry limitations in aspects like power supply and clocking platform (when I2S or SPDIF outputs are used). I am also an HQP 6 user, but not using a Red.

If you have the budget for the Matrix Audio NT-1, I would take that route without reservation. This streamer is a big step upward in performance, and others who have made this same upgrade report clear improvements, no doubt due to the NT-1’s excellent power and noise architecture and superior onboard clocking platform (I2S). Matrix supports HQP NAA, so it should be a hassle-free swap. 

Danny Richie from GR Research is suppose to do a series about streaming.  He just mentioned it in a previous video.  From what he mentioned some friends of his went down a rabbit hole and compared a bunch of less expensive equipment with some more expensive equipment and found some ways to get great sound inexpensively.

You are headed down the same path I am.  I was deciding between the Red and the NT-1.  Currently using the streamer/NAA in the Gustard R30 in the interim from my M4 via Ethernet.  Will be following this thread to see what you end up with.  Have you looked at the Eversolo T10?  I've not had a chance to deep dive on it yet.