Bluesound icon vs Nad c700

@spread5150 

I would get a Node Nano.  They are only $300 and Bluesound claims that the streaming portion is improved over older models.  I used to have a Node 2i and those are still selling for about $250 so I was considering buying used.  Their support is great and they seemed sincere that I would be better off getting the Nano.  I don't use the internal DAC and think you should make plans to add a separate one as well.  Live with the Node's internal DAC while you figure out that piece of the puzzle.  I looked up the NAD and even at a great price, it doesn't make sense to add an integrated to an integrated.  I assume your Mc is the MA352...I don't know Mc well but that is the only 352 I found.  Good luck

Not out yet I think. But soon. Bluesound had to up their game because they were being eaten for lunch by lower cost options from WiiM and Cambridge, so they did. By all accounts, the new Node Nano, Node N132, and Node Icon are steps up in audio quality. No a screen isn’t a requirement, but hey, it is nice to have and the one on the Icon is large enough to see across the room. If you listen alone you’ll have your phone to look at, but if you listen with others, they too can see what the heck is playing and I think it helps to see the album artwork so you can mentally associate it with the music (sure helps me find it again when scrolling through my playlists). And some people like the idea of throwing their phone in another room so they aren’t disturbed by texts, Facebook Messenger, and calls.

The two main things to know are its use of dual DACs that are the latest from ESS and a better, beefier, power supply to the point you won’t need to worry about modifying it with a LPS later on.

Also note that even though these reviewers seldom mention it, on both the Node N132 and Node Icon, the USB-A input can be software selected to be an OUTPUT for connection to an outboard DAC and use the presumably better clock chip in it.

Just be aware that according to the manuals, if you do so, all analog outputs are deactivated including (I assume) the subwoofer output. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xu_IEvNmbFg

I am using a Bluesound Node X and the sound is incredible. My Node X is hooked up to a McIntosh C55 which feeds into my MA 462 power amp. The rendition of the music is incredible from what mu ears can discern. I am looking for an incredible speaker in the high 5000 $ range to hook to my McIntosh MA 462 amplifier. Any recommendations?

Check out Lumin, both new and used. 

You should be able to get a used Aurender N100 for around a grand, also, if you don't need a Roon-capable streamer.

I'm betting the Icon sounds great for the money.   Is it the best source for that amp?  Not sure.  I have a Vault 2i and its been great.   No real issues in 5 years.  I also have an Aurender which is in a different league in my experience.  I

Do without a screen and buy an Innuos at your budget , way better sound and support than most companies in the streamer space at this price .

The newest Node Icon has dual DACs. To my knowledge this is the first time Bluesound has offered this feature. Unless someone has been to an Audio show with a Bluesound booth and has heard the Node Icon I am not sure who can answer your question.

So the node icon is a better streamer. I guess that is my question.  What streamer as that’s what I will be using it for ? 

you are better off with a node or better streamer then either. if the budget allows 

Dave and Troy

Audio  Intellect NJ

Nad, bluesound Atoll, naim dealers 

I don't know anyone who has the Node Icon. Has it been released yet? I have not even found a review. My guess is that it will be out by mid December 2024.

The most useless feature on a music streamer is a screen. Every single one of them uses your phone or your tablet why would you get up every time to change your music out?  Also, you have some nice stuff, look at something that will compliment the Mc.