2. digital
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Node2i + Qutest or Yggy or Codex or something else

Need help to decide ...

Which is a better choice for me:
Chord Qutest
Schiit Yggy
Ayre Codex 
Some other DAC

to go with the following system I have:
Sonus Faber Venere 3
Parasound P5 and A23
Bluesound Node 2i

Music:
Mostly classical music especially symphonies 
Jazz, rock, pop, vocal

Environment:
hardwood floor 


I am not getting the clarity and the sound stage I want when I listen to symphonies like Beethoven Symphony 5 or Violin Concerto.  

Is an external DAC the right solution? Or a better amp?

thanks.

pc_audio
luxmancl38
580 posts
 

The RME-ADI-2 DAC is worth a look. 
mayoradamwest
430 posts
 
What’s your budget? Do you have a place nearby that might have some of them, at least with headphones so you can get a sense of the sound? They are all going to sound pretty different. Why the Qutest and not the Hugo 2?
reubent
7,090 posts
 
@pc_audio,

I previously owned the Parasound P5 for a very short time. In my opinion, it is always going to be a limiting factor in your system. It was an attractive looking unit, affordable and rich with features. However, it sounded decidedly mi-fi in my system. It just didn't provide the open, airiness I would expect from a hi-fi component. If you are looking for clarity and sound stage, I would suggest you audition a different pre-amp first. After you've decided on a pre-amp, if you want another improvement in sound quality, investigate an external DAC. BTW - Question: Are you currently using the DAC in the Node 21 or the DAC in the P5?
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