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External DAC?

Hey guys,

Here's my current setup:  Node 2i > Marantz PM KI Ruby > Dynaudio Special 40.

I am considering getting an external DAC and bypass the Node's DAC.   I have seen great reviews for the Topping D90 but the MQA only works via USB (node 2i doesn't have usb out).  Not that big of a concern because I can always use Qobuz HiRes instead and to be honest, I can't tell much of a difference on most tracks.

Anyway, is the Topping D90 a worthy upgrade to the node 2i?  Or should I spend more and go for the trusted Chord Qutest?  I will be stretching my budget with the Chord but I am to wait and save up if it is worth it.  Any other DACs in this price range?

Please advise! 
prashanth13485
jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
d90 or qutest will outperform your node 2i internal dac substantially, will be heard clearly through your dynaudios

mqa is over sold over hyped highly inconsistent in delivering its promise - good dacs converting redbook signal will outperform mqa

that said d90 or chord will have a ’super clear’ solid state-ish sound signature, dunno if you prefer that kind of super hi fi sound, some do

other end of the spectrum are warm, dimensional more analog sounding dacs - in the 700-1300 dollar price range look at ayre codex, metrum amethyst, denafrips ares, neko d100-2
big_greg
6,622 posts
 
I added a $3500 (when new) DAC (Auralic Vega) to my Node 2 and it sounded better, but I would not go so far as to say it "outperformed it substantially).  It sounded better.  Replacing the streamer and DAC of the Node 2 with a TEAC NT-505 was a much bigger jump in sound quality.  I also considered Lumin's streamer/DAC products or getting a separate streamer and using the Auralic with it.

The Node 2i is built to a price point and performs admirably at that price point.  I don't understand why people don't think the streamer matters and that adding a marginally better DAC to a $500 streamer/DAC is going to substantially improve sound quality.
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 
big greg’s statement and experience notwithstanding...

i replaced my node 2i with brooklyn, auralic and lumin streamers (3-4x cost of the node) running SPDIF BNC into the same DACs I had at that time -- Chord Qutest, MHDT Stockholm, Schiit Bifrost MB, Metrum Octave, RME ADI2, Jolida Tube DAC

SQ improvement of a more expensive streamer was hardly noticeable (say 0-1 on a 10 pt scale)
SQ improvement of any of those DACs over the analog output of Node 2i (3-4 on a 10 pt scale)

my system, my internet feed, streaming tidal masters and quboz HR, my ears, my experience

your mileage may vary
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