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Best quality connection from Network Streamer (BluSound Node II) to Preamp (MC C2700)

Hello, 

This is my first post so I appreciate anyone who takes the time to look at this and provides any feedback. 

I just bought a McIntosh C2700 preamp and would like to connect my Bluesound Node II as a network streamer. I wanted to see what you all thought the best possible way to connect it to my preamp would be. 

I guess the first question is which DAC will I actually use. 

  • Bluesound has a 32-Bit, 384kHz DAC
  • McIntosh C2700 has the DA2 which is a 8-channel, 32-bit 24-bit/192kHz DAC

The Possible connection types that are available between the two units are:

  • Analog Stereo RCA (Fixed or Variable)
  • Coaxial RCA
  • TOSLINK digital optical
  • USB Audio 2.0*

I really appreciate your all's help on this issue. 

zcook79

Showing 1 response by dinosore

dinosore
100 posts
 

As previously pointed out, the Node 2 does not have USB output. If you output via coaxial or TOSLINK you will bypass the Node's internal DAC.  You will want to use fixed (not variable) output setting.

You can connect the coaxial and analog RCA outputs simultaneously and switch between the two and decide which you prefer.  The Node will output both simultaneously.

I have a Node 2i with a Denafrips Ares II DAC.  The DAC in the Node isn't bad, but I have no experience with your preamp.  But based on its price, I would hope it would have a better DAC than a $600 streamer/DAC combo.

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