Bluesound Node2 with outboard DAC

So I just typed this whole thing out but I guess since I wrote the word s**t it was deleted?? 
 

my question was “dang this is annoying” Rendu or Sonic transporter from small green computer. It seems that they both can stream to a dac. I think. Ones called a player and one a streamer. I don’t get it? I was emailing them back and forth today and still can’t understand what is the difference between the 2. I need both? Don’t need both but both is better … why? Wow should just get into vinyl! Lol

mofojo1

Don't want to hijack this thread but...

I replaced Node 2i with optical Rendu package with linear power supply and FMC bundle.  It is superb.  I play only Tidal and control it using mConnect ($5.00) connected to the opticalrendu.  I could not find the definitive explanation but I got it to work with no problems.  I connect to my Pontus DAC using a USB cable.

The on board DAC is so/so at best. MHDT DAC's with tube output give a lot of bang for the buck plus multiple inputs. 

Go outboard or go home!!!

I use my node 2i with my Ps Audio direct stream Dac with great results 

Been here...Done all this! First streamer was Andover Songbird. I was totally blown away by the whole experience. I bought a Schiit Mode3+ not knowing that the Songbird actually degrades the bit count when using the optical or digital out.....But strange as it seems, it sounded better. I then moved the Songbird to my offioce and bought a Node2i.......HUGE improvement in SQ even with its own DAC....Hooked to the Modi3+ it sounded a tiny bit better but there was a strange interaction between the two. When a song changed and the resolution changed, there was an audible POP....I called Schiit and they were aware and said get a BitFrost!.....Just a few weeks ago I decided to take advantage of Amazons extended Christmas return policy and bought a Gustard X16.....HOLLY MOLLY! What an improvement! I couldn't believe a DAC to influence the SQ this much....Not sure how much better it would get with a multi thousand $$ DAC....Have I reached diminishing returns? (My equipment...Schiit Freya/ VTA ST120 Dynaco tube/ KEF LS50 Meta)