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Bluesound Node 2

I'm a complete newbie in the digital space, not counting CD players of course. I'm also on a path to upgrade my system from other various angles, mostly preamp and speakers. All that said, I'm currently using a Bluesound Node 2 with a hifi Tidal subscription. No computer files or hardwired USB connections. My first question is where does Bluesound fit in the digital wireless streaming quality hierarchy. And a related question is what would be a good upgrade path, again assuming only wireless streaming as the source. I see a lot of high end DACs out there, some several thousand dollars and wonder if those are only used for connection to a laptop and running computer hirez files, etc. Not a whole lot about wireless streaming. All in all, some guidance in the digital wireless streaming space would be appreciated. Thanks.
128x128kalali
kclone's avatar
kclone
680 posts
 
williewonka.  are you using the internal DAC with your Node 2 or an external one?
williewonka
3,075 posts
 
@klone - I'm using the DAC in the Node 2 with good cables on the analogue outputs

I had a Bifrost with the 4490 mod + v-link192, but the Node 2 with the same good cables trounced the Bifrost, so I sold it.

I thought the Bifrost combo was good, but the Node 2 is an exceptional perofrmer and incredible value.

I now sure that the standard computer USB interface is not really meant for  high end audio - unless you buy one of those specialty USB boxes, but that's a lot more expensive.

It would be interesting to hear the Node 2 with a really good DAC - like the Ygg'y, but that's not in the cards while I have sound this good.:-)

It would be interesting to know what type of DAC the Node 2 uses

I'm listening to the Pulse Mini as I type this and the details, balance and clarity are outstanding. I've actually reduced the bass by 4db and it's still powerful

Perhaps I'll get another one and link them as a stereo pair - yowzer ! :-)

Cheers
mr_m
1,900 posts
 
I think the Node 2 uses Sabre DAC's. I think.....
bondmanp
1,816 posts
 
Thanks, williewonka!  Your comments are very helpful.  I am seriously eyeing the Node 2 for my 2018 audio purchase, if I am still employed.
wgutz
85 posts
 
Hey williewonka - exactly which power cable made such a difference in Bluesound output quality?  
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