WiFi System Upgrades

Scott, after success with the Powernode 2 on my av system, today I purchased the Node 2 for my audio system .

It was easy to setup an  A/B comparison between its built in DAC and analogue output stage to that of my Bifrost.

Verdict - I cannot discern any difference between the two units.

And that result is even before the Node 2 is burned in. it is also using a stock power cable, so it should start performing even better.

Needless to say I'm extremely impressed and a very happy camper indeed 😆

That's great, williewonka. You have a fantastic system; thanks for providing feedback on the comparison.

I know I enjoy my Node 2 a lot. I haven't had high dollar sources in my system but the it's the best source I've had.

Cheers,

Scott

Scott one further update - I have just completed installing the Node 2 into my system using an excellent cables ( power & IC's).

As I suspected the Node 2 up'd it's game and it was easily noticeable...
- improved clarity
- finer details
- more precise imaging and spacial accuracy.

Can't wait for it to burn in :-)

I've compared my DAC/Vlink192 setup to many other brands and configurations and most paled in comparison, so the Bluesound really is a very nice surprise and so affordable

If you have a Bluesound - Give it some TLC and get the best cables you can afford - it responds very well.

BACKGROUND INFO - My comments are based on streaming tracks from my NAS drive only, that is connected via ethernet cable (no wireless). I have not yet tried any streaming services

Resolution of tracks include MP3, 16/44, 24/96 and 24/192 and are mainly RAW and AIFF.

That's about it :-)

Cheers

williewonka, thanks for the update. I’m running WireWorld Equinox interconnects on my Node 2. I’m using the Node via Ethernet connected to my router (the Ethernet cable run is 20 feet and I’m using Blue Jeans Belden cat6a cable). The Ethernet cable run is too long to consider higher end brands. I’m running iTunes AIFF files wirelessly to my router. Are you using a different power cord on your Node 2? Thanks.

The family and I love streaming. As I type I'm listening to WGUC out of Cincinnati. I believe they use a 192kbs stream and it sounds great. With a tap I can listen to KDFC out of San Fransisco or stream a station from Belgium or Wales or Antarctica or Asia. It's pretty cool. We don't us any premium services just the lower rez free streams from TuneIn, Spotify etc. I don't stream for serious listening but that could change if I ever pay for the higher Rez premium services.

Cheers,

Scott

Scott - I'm using no-name CAT6 from a local computer store and it works flawlessly - the run is 30+ ft long and it passes through a Ethernet Switch on the way from the NAS to the Node 2

I'm into DIY cables, so I make my own - but they are extremely good - I've compared them to cables costing thousands and I find mine offer better performance - believe it or not.

One other thing I've found with all my components, using my power cables will result in the components operating at lower temperatures and they provide improved clarity and spacial accuracy.

Here's a link if you are interested...
http://image99.net/blog/files/be8de0c383c5434907610d6b55049e69-75.html
http://image99.net/blog/files/4127b5fe2694586e383104364360373b-74.html

For the power cables - even if you don't use the conductors identified in the link, adopting the Helix geometry alone will provide significant improvements. I adapted an 18 gauge cable on my Yamaha mini system and the improvements amazed me.

If you are not into DIY, then I would suggest a power cable from Pangea or Anti Cables perhaps.

I like the braided architecture of Anticables and based on that I believe they would provide pretty good bang for the buck, but they are quite thick,

Unfortunately, when the component only costs $599, spending a lot on  cables seems a little ridiculous and most of the power cables out there are on the expensive side. But I have found that the more "affordable components" benefit the most from great cables

 For connecting the power cable to the Node 2, I use a Cryo'd adapter from Take Five Audio to connect the standard IEC connector to the smaller C7 socket.

https://www.takefiveaudio.com/categories/82-ac-adapters-nema-uk-schuko-c7-c5

Hope that helps :-)