A CD PLAYER whose sound quality NOT AFFECTED by the DAC?

Thanks. Yes, my NODE is my systems’PreAmp/StreamerDAC as well. Neither my Cary Tube Rocket 88 Amp, nor my Marantz MM7025 Amp, have AUX inputs. I currently run BALANCED to the NODE, whose DAC has been better than most. So, I won’t be grabbing an external DAC. 

BUT THANKS… I guess there is more to it. I currently use a Denon DVM-1805 MULTIPLE CD PLAYER. Is there a big upscale by purchasing something else?

The Node is like owning a Corvette, riding in a Miata, selling the Vett because the sound of the Miata’s exhaust system is what you really wanted after all. 

It’s easy for me to learn and get more confused. I DO have a Marantz 2226b in the closet. Integrated Receiver. It’s got some Pre Amp possible U HOOKS on the back, ins and outs… maybe?

Crutchfield rep said that also: “Can you really HEAR the difference?” 
 

…and who would WANT to? And then… more confusing decisions to have to make, and the comparisons are always on different canvases. I think that it’s all about the looks of machines, ego, and the specs that support it …kinda like thinking the paper on spec sheets has sound?

I agree. Bluesound Node. Sounds too good to waste $$ on DACs that don’t include ARC HDMI

Thanks. Yep. Streaming with Bluesound Node is so good, (and I have a Preset Remote), which is a quick grab, makes streaming like having a juke box! Bam! Got mostly 60’s stations and clarity from Australian and German stations is free and clear! 
   I had 150 WPC Nelson Pass Nakamichi amp, and returned it, to settle for 145 WPC Marantz. I’m fine into my Klipsch new 600 smaller speakers, ( selling  my Fortes)… with the SVS micro 3000 Sub…. WOW! The Nakamichi had more jump, but the Marantz capability of Balanced output Silver cables  to (RCA IN) the Node… supreme clarity now and soundstage on pedestal stands… so much music in the music now. 

So, I went ahead and bought a Sony DVP-S9000ES. THANK Y’ALL!!