Blue node 2i vs other devices

I just got a Node 2i day before yesterday and can address your concerns about Spotify (free version) but not Tidal as I have no experience with it.  The free version of Spotify appears only “streamable” via a slight workaround using the Node 2i’s Apple Airplay capabilities.  In this regard (and to my ears) Spotify sounds the same, SQ-wise, as my Apple TV 4K does playing the same. (Using “John Coltrane’s “Blue Train”, Extended Edition, as a reference).  Where the Node 2i is a decisive higher level of sound quality than what I’ve experienced using either my Apple TV or an older Apple Airport Express has been in streaming lossless files from my computer and, to a smaller extent, Radio Paradise.  I listen to TuneIn Radio a lot and was blown away at how good some of their “genre” feeds are on the Bluesound (HD Radio “Blues” sounds good enough to elicit “free content guilt”!).  These are my subjective observations using the 2i without an external DAC and I do not, as yet, subscribe to a paid music service although I’m planning to try Qobuz in the near future...

I started with the Apple TV, then switched to my computer with a Bifrost DAC via USB and then moved up to the Node2 and now I have the 2I.

The Node 2i is a significant improvement to all other options I listed above and for me - well worth the upgrade.

If you use good power and interconnect cables on the Node 2i it will surprise you even further.

I also use small cones underneath to isolate it from the shelf

I was so impressed I also purchased the Power Node 2 to replace my A/V system and the Pulse Mini for outdoor music - and never looked back

The Node 2i is so good I have no plans to upgrade any further
- i.e. unless they come out with another version :-)

Hope that helps - Steve

thank you for all your responses. I think I will give the node 2i a try. 

I have the 2i and it has been around for awhile.  One might guess a new updated model may be coming out.  Just a guess.

the Node 2i gets listed often ands sell fast...so not much to lose in trying one...and they can also be improved with a better DAC, worth it for Tidal but not Spotify