any suggestions on what to replace Bluesound Node 2i with
I just read this great response on another forum from a person that is an audio reviewer. --------------------------------- I've used a few streamers in my time as a reviewer and the ones I recommend at each price tier are: 1. Bluesound Node 2i ($550) 2. Innuos Zen Mini ($1400) 3. Innuos Zen MK3 ($2850) 4. Metronome DSS ($4200) You really do get a performance jump in these, especially once you get to units that have real power supplies in them. I used the Pontus ii for my Metronome DSS review and I thought the two worked well together. If I were spending my own money though I would probably get an Innuos. With the Zen mini you do have the option to upgrade to a separate power supply ($700) down the road. I haven't heard these side by side, but detail and control are the things I've noticed most when I got up the streamer chain. The Metronome is a detail machine, and it has whisper quiet backgrounds, reminded me a lot of their CD player which was far and away the best digital source I have ever used. The Innuos stuff I got to play with for a few days only, but I remember they had a lot more "body" and low end than the Node 2i which I have heard in a number of systems. I think you'd be happy with either the Zen Mini or the Zen MK3, they will sound a lot better than the normal $500 wall-wart streamers. Also they let you rip your CD collection so you have everything in one place. I would find a dealer to see if you can compare the two streamers, they might even let you bring in your DAC. |
Thanks for the responses. I have the option of streaming from the Node 2i connected to Anthem 1120 with optical. I also stream to my 1120 with Control4 if you are familiar with that which is a hdmi connection. I also stream Apple Music sometimes from my Apple TV which is connected with HDMI I am not familiar with the streamers mentioned but I will look them up |
While you are doing research check out Wolf Audio. I currently use their Alpha 3SX but the new Luna is close in abilities and performance. Customer support is excellent. https://wolfaudiosystems.com/product/lunar/ |
