Bluesound Node Icon

To my ears it is obvious that the Node Icon is a better streamer than the Node 2i. This is using a Denafrips Pontus 12th as a DAC. It was obvious immediately for me. The DAC in the Icon is pretty good too. It is close to being the overall quality level as the Pontus. So far it's more of a flavor thing with the two DACs. I just did hook the Pontus up to the Icon. It's different but does not blow away the Icon using it's own DAC. I've only used a Node 2i as a streamer so I can't compare the Icon to other brands of streamers.

Ancient tones

How would you describe the difference between the Pontus dac and the Icon?

@efoo 

Bluesound has great support and will answer your questions.  I had the same as I recently moved back to separates and had used a Node 2i a few years ago with success.  My questions to them were since I am only using their product as a streamer, was there any differences between the new models and also were their new products improved in their streaming capabilities over the 2i and other older models.  They said the streaming would be the same across the current lineup and that the new generation is improved over 2i/older models.  I went with the Node Nano and it works well.

Thanks dhite71.  That is great information.

I have a second system in my lake house where I am using a Node N130 into a Border Patrol DAC into a Mcintosh MA6500.  I think I am going to sell the N130 and BP DAC and get an Icon for that setup.  

I won't need the Icon there until spring so I will be able to test it in my main setup and see if I can notice any difference.  I will report back with my findings.

efo. You may find that an Icon without an external DAC will be enough. 

rwmiller. I'll have to get back with you on that. I haven't done enough listening with both DACs yet. First impression is the Icon DAC is great. The Pontus 2 12th has a nice upper bass that gives a fullness to things like horns. It's close in that both are more than adequate.