I don’t have personal experience with the icon. I have the node and node 2i.
I didn’t do a direct comparison. The node is used as a streamer only and the 2i is used with the internal dac on the patio.
I hear a lot of talk about upgrading the streamer. One video from moon audio suggests the streamer is about 30% and the dac is 70% of the sound. I’d think if you’re looking for sound improvement you would have to go up to a much more expensive streamer and probably the upstream internet line.
I myself am looking at other areas to improve.
That’s not to say the streamer doesn’t matter.
Bluesound Node Icon
I currently use Bluesound products because of their multiroom capabilities.
In my main system I have a bluesound node N130 hooked up to a Mcintosh D1100 preamp dac.
Thinking about buying the new Node Icon but I would be by-passing the built in dual dacs so I am not sure if there is any reason to upgrade to the ICON?
If anyone knows the new ICON and can give me some advice I would appreciate it.