Digital upgrade: new disc player or better streamer?


For consideration:  

Contemplating an upgrade in my digital system.  Currently using a Bluesound Node 2i streamer as well as an Oppo 105 for CD's and SACD's.  I have a collection of about 800 CD's as well as about 50 SACD's.  My system use is approximately 25% digital, the rest of the time listening to one of two turntables.  In my experience, really good analog betters very good digital including the high priced units, hence my modest digital investment to this point.

However, I find that I do enjoy streaming, not only for convenience but also to discover new music.

So I've been contemplating either a new streamer, specifically a Lumin T2 or similar, to replace the Node 2i.  Alternatively, a Marantz K1 Ruby to replace the Oppo, allowing me to use the Node 2i into the Ruby DAC.  Both options cost around $4K.

Thoughts or other recommendations?

Thanks!
bobbydd

Showing 1 response by auxinput

Not sure that I would pick the Lumin T2 because it still has a switching power supply.  Look for a linear power supply, even in a streamer. 

As far as Oppo, you can do a short-term patch by upgrading the 105 with a linear power supply for digital.  Even though it has a linear power supply for analog stages, it still uses switching power supply for all digital sections:

https://www.oppomod.com/

$380 for a LPM SE for the 105 will significantly improve its digital section for playing CD/SACD.  Then you can focus on finding a really good streamer/DAC.