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Node 2i what is better at that price, just need the streamer section?

Helping a friend that wants to get into streaming he has $1000 budget for streamer and dac, all used prices. He is now using vintage gear with just turntable. He wants me to pick it and have it sent to him.
 

I do not know much about a streamer in the under $400 range. I started with Auralic Aries femto clock and now have the G2 so I have no clue we’re to start for him other than the Node. 

 

if you have any streamer dac  combo suggestions more the merrier. I told him the Denafrips Aries I’ve heard one and had a Pontus. My thoughts to start off, you can always sell it pretty easy Node 2i and Denafrips. Thanks for helping my friend.

paulcreed
gdnrbob
4,447 posts
 

The Node offers the best in terms of streaming options for the price. If you need those options, then consider a 'better' DAC to replace the Node's DAC.

If you want high rez playback, like Tidal/Qobuz, then Aurrender, Innuos, etc. will be ones to consider, albeit at a higher cost.

My recommendation for your friend-

Get the Node, and buy a used Ayre Codex. It will be a little over his budget, but should be a very capable combo that will allow him to upgrade without spending much more, should he desire.

Bob

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,629 posts
 

Any better SQ requires more work. A friend that wants to stay that needs simple.

soix
9,571 posts
 

I’d recommend an iFi Zen Stream ($399 new) and a Musician Draco DAC ($750 new).  I have the Zen Stream and Musician Pegasus, which is a great combo, but according to reviews at stereonews.net the Draco offers almost all the performance of the Pegasus for $500 less.  Plus, your friend can look forward to significant upgrades in the future if desired and budget allows by upgrading the power supply of the Zen Stream and adding a DDC like the Musician Pisces or Denafrips Iris that’d allow him to take advantage of the Draco’s i2S input.  Just my $0.02 FWIW. 

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