Bluesound Node 2 - Next level up

For that sort of budget, I think you’re better off dividing it between a streamer and an outboard DAC with most of it on the DAC. I can tell you first hand that the sound quality out of a Node2 fed through a Schiit Modi Multibit is very good. I also tried running a Chromecast Audio ($35) through the same Modi and the sound quality was still quite good which makes me think that the DAC makes the biggest difference in this audio chain and not the streamer.

Bob, did you have a Multibit or a regular Modi/Uber? I looked at the Codex while back but the option of coax input was a limitation for me to use it with my CD player. I also have no need for a headphone amp or volume control. Otherwise it is a great DAC. Anyone using a Node2 with a Benchmark DAC? It looks like a great option.

My (old) CD player only has digital coax RCA output. Another question: has anyone compared the Node2 optical output with its digital coax? I've been shying away from using digital optical ports in general based on many comments implying that digital coax connections have better sound quality. 

mr_m, thanks for the input. Appreciate it. I'm definitely going to try the optical port and see if I can hear an improvement.