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Bluesound Node2 with outboard DAC

Has anyone used the Bluesound Node or Vault for music streaming connected to a good outboard DAC and respond to how good the combo sounds. I see the Bluesound has great connectivity and streaming options with a good user interface. Curious if using with a good dac is worth the money. 
I'm using Ayre 5xeMP preamp,  Mark Levinson 532h amp and Revel Performa floorstanders. Cardas interconnects.  
Currently using OPPO 105d as my music player and streamer,  don't like it disconnects from my tablet app control a lot and hoping for better resolution. I use Tidal HiFi for streaming and usb hard drive for stored music files. 
Appreciate relevant replies. Thanks Audiogon group
lnitm
aliskhan
1 posts
 
I'm also thinking of using an external DAC with node 2... and I'm also wondering if spending $1000 to $1200 going to get any tangible or even worthwhile boost in SQ.
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
aliskhan. 
I would have to say a resounding YES.
The weak link of the vault and node is the DAC, any half way decent DAC is an improvement. 1000 to 1200 gets you in the very good DAC market in todays equipment.
lnitm OP
143 posts
 
I must say that a few weeks back I bought a very lightly used Benchmark Dac2 in mint shape for $1,200 and connecting my Oppo BDP105d to it and the difference in sound is amazing. One of the best tweaks ive made, a great dac. 
luxmancl38
580 posts
 
Recently bought the RME ADI-2 DAC. Hooked it up to my Blue sound node and it was a huge improvement. RME is a German Pro Audio company that builds recording studio gear. It's a 32/768 kHz converter. W/features not found in other Dac's. Check it out on their website
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
There's actually a Benchmark DAC1 on here right now at just $400.
That is going to be a nice improvement just for that little cash, certainly over Bluesound and likely an OPPO too.
A benchmark dac2 sold for 950 here about 4 days ago.
There are some great dac deals around.
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