Op, what is your goal?
Basic units like the Node 2i provide streamer and DAC functionality. You are currently only using the streamer capability.
Akin to an integrated amp - you can get a component or break things into separates (streamer and DAC).
When I was at the inflection point of "I like digital, it's convenient - how can I make it sound better"; I ended up getting a streamer/DAC. I found it easier for me and felt the improved sound and experience was worth the money. I bought a Moon 280D (~$3k)