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Will adding an external DAC to my setup improve SQ significantly?

Hello everyone,
My current setup is as follows:
  • Buchardt S300 MK2 stand mount speakers
  • Peachtree Audio Nova 125 integrated amp
  • Bluesound Node 2i streamer
  • OPPO BDP93 Universal player
  • ProJect Debut Carbon Esprit DC w/Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge 
  • Bluejeans cables and interconnects throughout

The context:

Nowadays, my music comes 70% from SPOTIFY/QOBUZ/TIDAL streaming to the Bluesound Node 2i, with the rest coming from local files stored in my laptop, as well as older vinyls and CDs.

I listen mostly to all styles of Jazz, Classical, World Music, some Classic Rock, and even some easy listening tunes when the mood strikes me, all of this at reasonable volumes, but sometimes cranking it up some...

My listening room is our untreated living/dining room ( 550 square feet).

Now for my question:

While I very much enjoy the sound I'm getting for this modest but pretty good sounding system, I have read here and there that adding an external DAC can potentially improve on the overall SQ, as opposed to sticking to the Bluesound's internal DAC...

Before I go and spend hard earned money on what may not be a significant/worthwhile improvement, I wanted to ask those of you with much more experience than I your opinions. Of course, Bluesound owners are especially invited to chime in.

I really love the Buchardt speakers and would love to get the very best out of them.

Thanks very much for your input, experiences and of course, eventual advice as to what external DAC would fit the bill.

My budget is limited to around $1000, as it wouldn't make sense to spend more on a DAC in a system this modest, or am I wrong?

I have beend advised to checkout the upcoming SMSL M500. Any of you guy know much about these chinese machines (Topping/ SMSL/ Denafrips...). They appear to be very competitive price and specs wise, but I'm too much of a newbie to tell the difference, especially as it applies to my specific gear and circumstances.

Regards to all!

jlr261
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mahler123
3,365 posts
 
As mentioned, you already have 3 DACs.  I have the Bluesound Node2, and Oppo 105 and 203s, which I will presume have better DACs than the 93.  I have never heard the Peachtree.
  The Node2 DAC is ok but can definitely be bettered.  At one point I was running into an old PS Audio DLink3 that I had lying around unused and the old DAC definitely improved the sound.  I gather that you prefer the DAC from the Node over that of the Peachtree so I would think that a modestly priced DAC will up your system
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,561 posts
 
Check out Denafrips Ares II, great sounding DAC and incredible value. It will be a perfect companion for Node 2i.

Spotify offers low resolution streaming hence your CD’s sounds better. Stick with Tidal or Qobuz streaming for better listening experience.
everest_audio
285 posts
 
jlr261, to answer your question, you shouldn't hear any sound quality difference going from wifi to Ethernet on your Bluesound.
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jazzman7
348 posts
 
jlr621,
In your quest, try to tune into what you are looking for.
DACs have different personalities.  Don't get hung up on the chip set.  It is the manufacturer's implementation of a given chip set is where the rubber meets the road, especially with respect to the op amps.  Two different DACs using the very same chip set may exhibit very different personalities based upon differences in their implementation.  What matters most is what you yourself like.  So my advice to you would be to go forth and listen, at friends, at dealers, to figure out what you like best.
Also seek out reviewers that you trust, and have a good sense of how to interpret.   I personally seek out reviews by both John Darko and Mike Lavorgna.   Happy hunting.  
jlr261's avatar
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jlr261 OP
34 posts
 
Good morning everyone!
I can't  thank you enough for your various suggestions and advice, it really helps me to learn more about this wonderful hobby, and hopefully, make sound decisions as to what the next move could be.

mahler123: thanks for sharing your experience with the Node 2 and associated equipment.

Lalitk: I am really intrigued by the Denafrips Ares II, on which they are currently offering a 10% discount on an already quite reasonable price... I can afford it !! May very well pull the trigger and resell should it not work out...

everest_audio: thanks,  I wasn't  sure there would be no difference between WIFI and wired connection... 

jazzman7: I hear you loud and clear, each person's  perception will be different. But since I currently reside in the Central African country of Gabon, where there is NO serious audio reseller, I have to pretty much rely on forums,  reviews, and occasional trips abroad  to have a listen... I have read several of John Darko's reviews, and a few from Mike Lavorgna, and enjoyed them thoroughly.  

Thanks again everyone  and keep it coming!

Regards, jlr261
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