New Bluesound's Node 2i

As fast far as better sound-without hearing it, can’t say, but essentially it’s a digital transport and the external DAC should be the biggest factor there.  I’m willing to believe that the DAC included sounds better, because there have been so many changes in DAC technology in the last 3 years.  Too ad current owners can’t upgrade with a firmware update—or can we?

Now I remember...
The original Node and Node 2 didn't support 5 ghz wireless.
Did that change with the 2i?
Bob

Yes, from their website...

Dual-band Wi-Fi

Bluesound has also upgraded the Wi-Fi chipset technology in its Bluesound Players to the latest and greatest Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) dual-band offering. Best-in-class products deserve best-in-class connection; with the new Wi-Fi chip onboard, Gen 2i owners can take advantage of the less noisy 5 GHz band if needed. This results in faster connection times and fewer interruptions from other network traffic.

I am using Ethernet and an external DAC.  Wonder if there would be any further difference?  Apple AirPlay is new and would be nice.  

Ordered one today through Amex Awards and ships from Crutchfield.  I’m really excited to find out how this sounds on my big system.  I’ve really enjoyed using the Vault 2 in my modest mountain home system.  Hopefully my expectations will be fulfilled.