Streamer choices

An option at $2320:

• Tidal, Qobuz, or Deezer hifi subscription ($20/mo)
• MHDT Balanced Pagoda dac - $1820
• BlueSound Node 2i streamer - $500

I currently use Deezer, but if I was looking for the first time, I would go with Qobuz, as they have files up to 24/192.

A less expensive balanced dac that gets very good reviews and is feature-packed is the RME ADI-2 at $1100.

Edit:  I see you already have a Bluesound node. Is it the 2 or 2i?  As I understand it, for just streaming, the 2i  might be a small upgrade over the 2 because of the wireless improvements.  Something to look into.  

I have the Bluesound node 2. Right now I am using the optical digital output from the C48 Mac preamp. A buddy of mine said to try the coax digital output and see if I can hear any difference. Thankx .

I think you will find the biggest difference will be moving from Spotify to Qobuz or Tidal. In my experience the CD quality, and higher, of these services will yield a far bigger improvement to the sound than improving the streamer/DAC.

At 320kbs Spotify is a long way below CD quality. Playing Spotify through a better streamer/DAC will make a small difference. Playing Qobuz or Tidal through the Bluesound will make a massive difference.

You have received good advice from duckworp and others. That is: you can't polish a turd. Life is too short for listening to compressed music.

Start by upgrading to at least redbook res. from Tidal etc. then upgrade streamer. I would suggest separate streamer and DAC. I have heard the Lumin which is impressive but streamers are emerging rapidly and having the 2 functions in one box is limiting. I am using a Wadia 15 (redbook only)  DAC and doubt if I could find that perfromance from most combos except at insane prices.

I agree with those who say upgrade the source.  And separate DAC.  I am happy with an Innuos Zenith Mk2 into an Auralic Vega.  And the people at Innuos are great to work with.