Just installed a bluesound node 2i , quality not so good

Limited internal DAC. If you have good speakers and a transparent system, you'll hear the difference when comparing to a good external DAC plugged into the Node.  Also, threads galore on this topic on Agon and other sites as you search more. 

the nodes have been out there for quite a while, yet folks who claim to be audiophiles, come here and post, still lack an understanding of that the thing is...

@emergingsoul -

Like listening to music filtered by a blanket. Node 2i needs a better dac.  So disastifying.  Avr’s with bluos handle music better.  Waste of money for me.

You have a $500 streamer/Dac. If you want something better, spend $3K on an Aurilac.

As the Thing of Fantastic Four fame said:

You pays your money.....

Bob

This thread is so subjective. A dude with an AVR is complaining about the quality of the node? Come on already. I teed up the node back to back with a Lumin in my home for the weekend, struggled to come up with a difference. Had audiophile/musician friends come and listen to confirm. The OS plays a huge factor also, Lumin was abhorrent.  

And why is this in the speaker forum?  

I just use mine for steam and hook it up to a separate DAC. The analog outfits are not impressive even on the news Node. Get a good digital cable. If you are on a budget, Get a Mogami 2964 cable from Amazon, costs about $45. If you are well heeled, consider a Kimber D60. You can save a bundle with a half meter for about $250. I run my Node into a Schiit Gungnir and it is special. I love it.