Add Chord Cutest (DAC) to Bluesound Node or purchase HiFi Rose RS150BDAC


Hi, I just purchased a new Bluesound Node a week ago and I do not like the sound quality So I thought I would purchase a Chord Cutest DAC since I can bypass the DAC in the Node.  I only like using the Node for its user friendly Blusound software to access Tidal HiDef music using my cell phone.  So my question is if I'm just looking for the best audio quality imaging etc. would I have a superior sound quality using the Node with the Chord Cutest or would the HiFi Rose Model RS150B  audio sound quality be even better? I could live without the video screen on the Rose and the YouTube video music stuff Rose has built in that ports out to my large screen TV using the HDMI  Earc connection. I am just wanting to have the best audiophile sound period. So would the Rose be better sounding than what I'm thinking would be best sounding?  If the Rose would sound better I would buy the Rose and look into using its other features that I may like however I just want the highest quality sound period above all else without spending over 5K and stay on a budget under 2K IF I can surpass the Rose sound quality.   I am asking this question because I am hoping to save money and my research points to just adding a Chord Cutest to my Node because of all the vast awards the Chord Cutest keeps getting and forget the Rose. In my system I have a Modified Musical Fidelity A5 integrated Amp with just RCA inputs and I have Texton Electron Impact speakers. 

128x128jimnavarra

I doubt if you can hear a difference. At least double blind.

I’m sure that you will like one OS better than the other.

 

Qutest is an excellent DAC. Go used and allocate some funds for a good USB cable. 

Chord for sound, Rose for looks.  

Return the node and buy a streamer only and get more streamer for your dollar.

Jerry

I think you’re on the right track as long as the Qutest offers the sound qualities you’re looking for.  The other thing I’d do is upgrade to an exterior linear power supply as many Node users report big improvements from that.  I’d think between the DAC and power supply you’d be in really good shape, and you still have the OS you seem to like.