Upgrade from Rogue Audio Sphinx v2


My current system is Focal Aria 926s, BlueSound Node 2, and Rogue Audio Sphinx v2. I like the system a lot and enjoy the sound as a big step up from what I had before. But I've recently begun to notice that I feel like the sound is a bit veiled for lack of a better word. I can hear great detail, but it sounds like it's coming through a blanket or something. I suppose this is just my ears/mind adjusting over time. I also had the experience recently of hearing a substantially higher end system that made the music sound as if I could hear the air all the way around each note such that it was just so much more alive sounding. All that's to say, I'm think of upgrading and looking for suggestions. I figure the Sphinx is the place where I want to make a change, in part because I want to go to full solid state to avoid the power drain when my kids leave it on overnight. I've heard an Atoll IN200 that I loved in the shop but haven't compared side by side with my Rogue. I also got recommendations recently for a Musical Fidelity M6si or a Belles Aria, though I haven't found an Aria available recently. I'd rather not spend more than $2500 or so, and that only if it's going to be a significant improvement over what I have now. I'd be curious for folks' thoughts on how much I need to spend to notice a big difference and if there might be something out there that's not a whole lot more than the Sphinx but will give the clearer and more detailed sound I think I'm looking for. I also just like reading your comments in response to these kinds of posts to get a sense of how folks think about sound and various systems. Thanks! 
128x128grateful_dad
I had the Sphinx V1 for a short while. Never really gelled with it it. I hooked it up via its pre out to a very old Odyssey Stratos and it sounded night and day better! Like no comparison. Made it sound anemic. I think for a grand or so you could try another amp with it and use as a preamp. Older Adcoms Odyssey Aragon I think all would be substantial improvement. Move on from there if you wanted a better pre. 
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The issue may be related to your BlueSound Node 2. Are you using a separate DAC or are you using it's internal DAC? If so, you should try to borrow a DAC or a better streamer from your dealer. The Bluesound is a good product but benefits from an external DAC for better sound quality.

Just a thought, Good Luck!
I agree with the comment above about the Bluesound Node. I got a Node 2i that I used for streaming Qobuz, without an external DAC, but recently purchased a Moon 260D -- a combination transport and DAC -- that I'm now running the Bluesound into. The improvement, as folks say, is not subtle.

My suggestion, for what it's worth: Try out a DAC, or a couple of DACS, to see if the weak link isn't the Sphinx, but is the built-in DAC in the Node. You could try buying used right here on Audiogon and then reselling for not much of a loss. And it might even be some fun.

Just sayin'.

-- Howard
I'm using the Schiit Modi Multibit with the Bluesound, and I think it's a bit of an improvement over the Bluesound's DAC.