Node2i + Qutest or Yggy or Codex or something else

@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?

Do you have a budget for a new DAC? As noted above, are you able to hear any of these products at your local audio store? The best way to decide is for you to hear it.

Please note that I replaced my Parasound Hint 6 Integrated amp (after owning it for 2 months!) with the Ayre AX-7e Integrated amp. The sound quality and imaging was much improved with the Ayre amp. This is only my opinion and others may agree or disagree.

I previously owned the Ayre Codex DAC and it is excellent. It only has USB and Toslink inputs. I ran it balanced to the Ayre amp and the sound quality was excellent. The Codex DAC sounds best when used with its balanced XLR connections.

I hope you are able to audition these components to help you make a decision.

If you want to try a different pre-amp, just to see if it produces the sound quality improvement you seek, you could buy the really cheap Shiit SYS and give it a try. Only $49, 2 switched inputs and one output. No frills, volume control and 2 input switching only. Not a bad little piece of kit to have lying around for emergency backup either... For $49, you'll know your answer. Also, Shiit does offer 15 home trial for a 15% re-stocking fee. 

Thanks for all the quick responses.

My budget is $1800 and less.
I can’t afford Chord Hugo, PS Audio and other higher priced products unless their used price drop.

I have tried both:
1) Node2i DAC: analog output to P5
2) P5 DAC: Node2i digital output to P5 with Audioquest Carbon toslink 

I find Node2i DAC a little forward, bright, clearer and harsh compared to P5 DAC.  But I have only had 1 week to break in Node2i DAC while the P5 has been used for over 1 year.

I can possibly audition Qutest and Codex but not Yggy as there is no show room.  

I use the Node with an Ayre Codex.
John Rutan had a side by side demo between the onboard DAC and the Codex.
The difference was clear.
I also can say that the Schiit Gungnir or Yggy should provide approximately the same level of sound quality.
To be fair the onboard DAC of the Node isn't bad considering the price it sells for and you get network connectivity.
Bob