Streamer question

My wife is taking a course and requires a Microsoft computer.  I was left without my roon core Microsoft surface.  Used qobuz via chromecast audio instead of my roon player.  Was shocked at how close the sound quality was.  I know the testing specs are awful on chromecast audio at 70 dollars but hardly noticed  from ultra rendu opticsl

I’ve got the Node as well. I wouldn’t look at replacing it. First, get a solid external DAC. I use the MHDT Orchid (has an output stage tube). My next step is upgrading the Node’s internal switching power supply with a Teddy Pardo external linear power supply (which comes with a quality power cable). All the owner reviews indicate the Teddy Pardo is a very noticeable upgrade - improved dynamics, soundstage front to back and wide, as well as bass response, etc. It’s almost $450 total, comes with a full conversion kit (unlike the Sbooster), but the streamer will perform as well as competitors that are a few thousand dollars after this upgrade. I wouldn’t recommend an external linear power supply, though, if still using the Node’s internal DAC. I really looking forward to receiving the power supply tomorrow from Israel :).

@cleeds

Will Rigelian allow you to access streaming services through MPD on a BDP? I thought Regelian only managed local storage?

I too am a fan of Brystons BDP units an I am amazed out how good my little BDP -Pi sounds.

Update: Hmm just looked on the Rigelian app in the App store it says this:

" Browse and play the entire Qobuz library (BubbleUPnP and upmpdcli only, requires a separate subscription to Qobuz)."

Where does the Bubble UPPnP server run?

I’m not sure I am following your question. The Bluesound app (not a web app) was recently updated if that is what you are referring to? If so, it can be updated via your device by downloading the latest version. Once again this is an app on iOS and Android. If you want the ultimate experience via an app and software you want to use Roon. 

Getting a streamer with a decent app is difficult. After going through 4 streamers without getting anywhere near what I wanted from an app I had to bite the bullet and sign up to Roon. While it can be complicated finding your way around what Roon does and how it is by far the best music management system available. Like you I hated the Conductor app and preferred the native Qobuz app but could only use it via Airplay which doesn't stream hirez.

And when upgrading streamer/DAC to another Roon Ready device it is so easy- just unhook the ethernet from the old streamer to the new one, find the streamer on the remote iphone/ipad, click and it is playing! Nothing new to learn, no playlists to import, perhaps some signal path settings and that is it- if the OP were using Roon this thread wouldn't exist :)