Technically you can use the Node 2i as a "preamp" and control the volume, tone, balance, etc., via the BlueOS app on your mobile device. I experimented with this "direct" connection when I first got my Node 2 but did not care much for the sound quality when compared with a proper preamp in the loop. It wasn't bad, actually quite detailed and crisp but I found it too dry and lifeless. If you decide to try it, make sure you watch the volume control on the app and start with a low setting until you find the range where the combination of the output from the Node and the gain of the amp give you a good sound quality.
Can I use a Bluesound Node 2i as a Preamp?
I just recently purchased a Bluesound Node 2i to use with my CXA80 integrated amp. However in future I’m looking at upgrading to a high end power amplifier. As I’ve had the CXA80 for years I want to try a few different DAC’s etc. So in future I’m looking at buying a high end power amp I can plug some RCA cables into and use some different bits of kit.
Whilst I was on the phone to the guy from the audio store, whilst purchasing the Node 2i I asked about connecting the Node 2i to an NAD M22 as an example. He warned me not to do that for too long, as I’d need a proper Preamp, he was warning me that the Node 2i is not a Preamp. Fair enough but I am a bit confused, what does a Preamp have that the Node 2i does not? How do you define what a Preamp is then? What is the risk of connecting a Node 2i to a M22 directly via RCA? Or is this just a traditional thing that you need a big preamplifier for a big amplifier? I can’t figure out what the reasoning is. Is this to do with grounding of the preamp? or something else? Any feedback would be appreciated.
Whilst I was on the phone to the guy from the audio store, whilst purchasing the Node 2i I asked about connecting the Node 2i to an NAD M22 as an example. He warned me not to do that for too long, as I’d need a proper Preamp, he was warning me that the Node 2i is not a Preamp. Fair enough but I am a bit confused, what does a Preamp have that the Node 2i does not? How do you define what a Preamp is then? What is the risk of connecting a Node 2i to a M22 directly via RCA? Or is this just a traditional thing that you need a big preamplifier for a big amplifier? I can’t figure out what the reasoning is. Is this to do with grounding of the preamp? or something else? Any feedback would be appreciated.