Bluesound Node2 with outboard DAC


I love the Node2 and was wondering if anyone uses it with an outboard dac for improved sonics. If I added a 2 or 3k dac would the Node2 limit it's performance or would I be better off with a streamer/dac at around 3.5k used? Thanks.

joeyfed55

I recently moved overseas and my gear is coming in about a week or so. I have the Nodi 2i, but I’ve never hooked it up to a separate DAC.  I now have an audio GD NFB-1S DAC & also the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 2.  Not sure which coax cable I have as a friend gave me one.  I’ll see which DAC I like better and sell the other.  I  also just got an Audiolab 6000CDT for my cd collection.

I have a Bluesound Node 2i and it's been nothing but trouble. When it works, it's find. Trouble is, the software doesn't work well with homes that have mesh internet (basically more than 1 source). Searches take forever (about 45 seconds or more) and frequently have to be repeated to be successful. I use it mostly to stream music from Tidal.

I've had several service calls with Bluesound and they still haven't fixed it - they always suggest resetting the unit and my wifi... and it never works. Look at the reviews in the app store and you'll see that I'm not alone - many others have rated their software as terrible. 

So, if you don't have a mesh router, you'll probably be ok using this product. But if you do, strongly advise looking elsewhere.

Using a PS Audio DirectStream DAC Sr. with my Node 2i. Not gonna change a thing.

Have a mesh extension router setup with node 2i and no issues, 

new DAC on the way.

Yes, me too. I recently installed Google Nest Mesh

system and the Node (2021) works great. Prior to

the Mesh I had a Netgear wifi extender wired to

the Node and I was getting intermittent audio drop outs.

I also use an external DAC.