PD-Creative

OP, 

Whether it matters or not is like asking if a new (larger) intake valve would improve the power output of a car engine. 

Higher quality internal components in general are going to lead to better objective performance. There is a reason why mega-buck components from the biggest names in audio refrain from using cheap power supplies and rudamentary caps etc. from China. An amp that costs only a hundred bucks and claims to be a "power amp" probably isn't; and comparing it to one that costs many thousands of dollars is going to lead to finding many differences between the two.

In the end, almost everything audio matters. However, above all your perception and enjoyment are far more important.

I ordered the Creative board and budget power supply combo and it took just a few days to arrive. I Installed it last night and gave it a listen for a good hour today running through an MHDT Orchid.  Even in a doubtful, hyper critical frame of mind I found it sweeter on top, tighter on the bottom, much better focus, clarity and inner detail, especially strings and choral. It really won me over.  Smooth. Punchy.  I could feel my ears relax and the sound open up.  For $126 delivered it’s a bargain.  

@wlutke ya man, way to go !thanks for the informative real world post !

thanks, @wlutke ...my order has been placed......

O.K.  Here I am with a new (2021) Bluesound Node in the mix.  Never mind that it took almost two hours for it to play ball and be recognized by the Bluesound app.  It did and I’m happy as Hell.  So pardon me if I’m partying at the moment.  I live in one of those green states.  Anyway, I’ve obviously got the experience of the 2i and the 2i upgraded.  On to the new Node.  I was curious as to how the old 2i  stacked up.  Threw on my favorite Spotify play list (blues).  The Node was grating.  Less glare than the stock 2i but that’s where the fun ended.  It was very etched and unconvincing. And little body.   Somewhat easier to follow in the vocals but no inner detail at all.  The stock 2i kicks its rear musically.  So there you have it.  I’ve got the Creative upgrade on the way as we speak.  Whatever.