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

Is there really a difference in the streamer section between the Node 2, 2i, and 130 or current model? I’ve also been told power supply goes out as they age is that true and drops out? What about Mac mini only other I know is Auralic mini or Aries. 

A used Node 2 is hard to beat as a steamer for the price and versatility.  Still using mine in a 3rd system and after many years no problems whatsoever.

Thanks for everyone’s help. Friend ended up buying a Denafrips Aries and a Auralic Aries femto clock version. Now he has to buy some cheap used power cable and digital cable. It never ends.