I have two systems,the main system has a Node 2i. I’m running that through an April Music DA100 stello signature. I prefer the April over the 2i’s DAC. More detail,and way bigger,and holographic soundstage. The second system has a Node 2. That is running through a Beresford Bushmaster. Very inexpensive. I still prefer that over the 2’s DAC. A little punchier,and again a much larger,holographic soundstage. YMMV.
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!
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!
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- 39 posts total
“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.” +1, @big_greg. Go for a better DAC now and later upgrade the streamer. Explore high quality offerings Lumin, Innuos and Aurender. |
If you’re not ready for a quantum leap (and big spend) the Metrum Flint Gen Two will do what you ask for, make the BluNode bloom. https://metrumacoustics.com/dac/31-metrum-flint.html For ~$655 delivered to U.S. 30 day free returns. If you want a Topping buy from Apos. They’ll match price and ship DHL direct from China. I prefer Dutch. Groeten |
Don’t settle for cheap toys...make an solid investment 👇 https://www.vinshineaudio.com/product-page/denafrips-ares-r2r-dac https://www.vinshineaudio.com/product-page/denafrips-pontus-r2r-dac https://www.11stereo.com/product-page/audiobyte-black-dragon |
- 39 posts total