Interesting comments. I am new to the streaming thing. But I build reference audio components, DHT DAC point-to-point wired with 20lb power supply. IMO the DAC makes the biggest improvement. The streaming device contributes but not to the level of the DAC but most of you have not heard what we manufacturer, and you cannot buy something like our DAC anywhere.
Now that being said, last night with the Node 2i, we found that Spotify was better sounding than Roon. Very easy to hear the immediate difference.
The Pro-Ject audio CD transport was also a major improvement in sound quality.
We used the Holo $3K DAC and the Rockna $16K DAC for comparisons.
I also have accessible the Auralic to compare to the Node 2i to see if any improvement and how much improvement there will be but we did not get the chance last night to take a listen. I will probably do that comparison next week.
Thanks for posting your comments, very informative.