Hi, I took quite some time to compare different options and I feel that a Streamer/DAC makes a big difference in sound quality compared to the option using an iPad. Good options to consider without spending too much money are the Node 2i or, a bit more pricey but also money well spend, the Cambridge Audio CXN V2. A beosound core will also work great I expect (but I did not test myself), but I think this will only give the best performance if you will switch to Deezer which is natively supported.

Regards,

Dennis

Welcome to the forum.

This may be insightful for you.

/forum/general-discussion-and-questions/a-day-with-a-bluesound-node-2i#post-2140347

From the sounds of your gear (used, older -- except the iPad), you might prefer a budget solution that lets you operate exactly the same way you do now.  So absolute plug&play would be: an Audioquest Dragonfly (might as well get the cheaper one) and a "tail" to connect it to the iPad (e.g. Apple Camera Adapter/Connection Kit).  Merely switching from the built-in iPad DAC is a big step up.  Various alternatives in that BlueSound Node2i thread are superior -- not to mention wireless rather than chained to a headphone jack -- but of course more costly, as is a Core.

The DAC in the Beosound Core is excellent. I believe LG used a lower end version of it in their highly rated (for audio) phone the V30. The Chord Qutest is also excellent but expensive. I had a Topping D90 that I also liked.

The Core supports AirPlay 2, Chromecast and the music sources available through the B&O App. I really like the Core AND Essence Remote. I guess in your case it would be the Halo remote!