2. digital
  3. 179558-162656

NODE as just a streamer / Airplay device

What are your thoughts on using the NODE as just a streamer and for airplay, and for storing maybe 30 CD of music in FLAC digital format? I will use a separate DAC, leaning toward the Benchmark DAC3 and I ordered the AHB2 amp.

My goal is a reliable, easy to use interface, easy to set up device that outputs accurate digital signal to the DAC. Probably going with Qobuz. Since this is the software side of thing, I want it to have an easy to use, feature rich interface, and is reliable and supported. Few things are more frustrating to finally getting some time for music listening and then having things not work or connect. I would like to hardwire connect the NODE to Ethernet cable and use an IPad to wirelessly control the NODE via a user interface. I want the Ipad to just be the controller and not be in the streaming loop.

Thanks of your input/advice.

12many
12many OP
228 posts
 

@tgilb 

As I understand it, you are correct.  Airplay is limited to about cd quality.  It is for convenience mostly and CD quality is still very good - better than 8 track right !!   Hi res would be straight from Qobuz with the Ipad used only as a controller.  I can not confirm 100% on Airplay 2, but I think it is the same.  

relayer101's avatar
relayer101
606 posts
 

I agree. Definitely better than the old 8 track quality that happened to be in my first car. 

For the money the Bluesound Node is hard to beat. I've always been very satisfied with the sound quality from 16/44 files and up to 24/192. 

2psyop's avatar
2psyop
1,503 posts
 

I have been using a Node 2 and later a Vault. I was using the Node 2 wired and then accessed ripped CDs through my network to a MyCloud HDD. Later I transferred all aiff files to the Vault HDD and started to rip future cds into the Vault. Both Node 2 and Vault are feeding external DACs. The sound is good enough for my ears, whether I stream CD or MQA via Tidal or stream CD or HiRes thru Qobuz. It’s also fine playing ripped FLAC files. But IMHO you must run it wired, too much fuss using it wireless.... way to finicky.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,505 posts
 

AirPlay passes Redbook played by Apple. I might prefer 320 kbps played by a decent streamer.

Amen to the wired requirement.

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,211 posts
 

I’m using a Node 130 as we speak and you can plug a memory stick in the USB with your CD’s and use a digital RCA or Optical to your amp.  The software makes it easy to switch to Tidal/Qobuz/CD.   I did just that until just recently.  Now I’m using the USB to my amp and my CD’s are coming from the NAS.

All the best.

JD

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