External DAC connection for Bluesound Node 2i (after "Another streaming newbie" thread)

There are ways to upgrade the performance of the Node 2i. Swapping out the stock PC for a good aftermarket cable and using ethernet over wifi are significant upgrades. I also upgraded from CAT6 to a Supra CAT8 and discovered an audible increase in SQ.
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/node-2i-performance-suggestions-pls-2

The Node with it's internal Dac sounds better with these upgrades, but I prefer using using an external Dac. There are so many good Dacs available today that I won't make a recommendation, but the sound thru my Dac is a night and day improvement over the stock Node 2i. I've found that a good S/PDIF coax cable can further increase SQ and enjoyment. I did a lot of cable rolling to find a digital coax that took streaming to a higher level. I'm using a High Fidelity CT-2 coax; it's expensive but I also use it with my CD transport.

@lowrider57  Come on, give us a recommendation. I have a Node2i and looking for an external DAC. 

If you want a neutral DAC that measures very well Topping D90 or Benchmark DAC3.  I've had both and I can't say which is better they both are very good the Topping has a MQA version of the D90 if that's  important to you.

Cables I've owned:
Acoustic Zen Absolute 75, 
Oyaide DB-510 Digital BNC were both very good. Many folks here like Black Cat. I've found you have to spend some money to get major improvement with digital cables.
OTOH, you don't have to spend a lot on a Dac these days. I have an Audio Note and can also recommend Metrum. Haven't personally heard the MHDT or Border Patrol, but they are highly recommended and owned by some members and are very affordable. These are all R2R NOS Dacs which I like for their organic sonics and realism.
I owned a Chord a few years back which I liked. It uses a buffer to control jitter before outputting the signal (called a FGPA).

If you like the sound of the Bluesound without an external Dac then stick with it. I have a 2nd system running that way. I think it sounds fantastic.