I'd consider upgrading the Node 2i. I think that is your weak spot. I fall short in recommendation except maybe an Aurender. Many have pointed out a big improvement when upgrading from the Node. And I have discovered that the source equipment often give best bang per buck
Amp Search and Upgrade
So currently I have a Parasound Integrated, the Hint 6, that are driving my Dali Opticon 8. They are rated as a 4 ohm speaker with an 88 db sensitivity. I am looking to upgrade one item this year so I want to make it count. The integrated has pre-outs so I can adda 2 channel amp or a pair of mono blocks.
At this point would I be better off getting just an amp and using the Hint 6 as pre temporarily until I can afford a better pre amp or should I get both pre and amp at once? I'm thinking something used {hopefully) in the $4k range.
I only stream using a Bluesound Node 2i feeding a very nice DAC, an Aqua LaVoce S2, I also have a pair of REL T/7i subs.
Recommendations on what would pair with the Dali's and whether I should stick with the Parasound as pre please!