Difference between Bluesound Node, Node 2, Node 2i, NodeX

Save yourself the money by a fiio K5 pro headphone amp ($150.00) with the ESS saber chip.. yes you are tethered to a USB cable but the Blue Node would not play music unless it was saved to my Amazon unlimited music.. I think the fiio sounds better too

IMO, a TeddyPardo LPS improves the Bluesound Node significantly in all ways.  Imaging is greatly improved,  soundstage is wider and deeper,  and bass much tighter.  And the 4.0 OS is intuitive, responsive,  and easy to use.  Another huge advantage is that it supports just about every major streaming service,  with the exception of Apple Music.  I have never used the dac in mine, just digital out, since I've always had a stand alone dac, currently a PS Audio Directstream DAC.  

I agree on adding LPS for improved sonics and or the only way to get higher performance out of the Node. I have since added the DMP A6 which outperforms any of the Nodes but you have to use a phone or tablet.. 

I have a 2i that I  bought refurbished 4 yrs ago and upgraded power supply.  That runs to a Topping D90 AKm version.  I am getting great detail, non fatiguing sound.  I will keep this til it fails.

If you are using an external DAC, I would start at the Node 130 (model after the 2i), as it is the first model with USB output....which you may use at some point in the future. Definitely upgrade the power supply to something like a Teddy Pardo or the like, I use an LHY linear power supply upgrade ($279).....power upgrades make a big difference on Bluesound Nodes