I have never used the Node 2 built in DAC. I have always used my Benchmark or Schiit external DAC, which I have owned for years. But I plan on trying it out.... soon.
Experience with Bluesound Node 2 use with external DAC
I am very impressed with the Node 2. So far my use of the Node has been with it's built in DAC. It sounds great. Since I don't own an outboard DAC I have had no other choice but to use the Node's DAC. It is hard to fault it's DAC at any price much less the $500 price of the Node. That being said, I realize there are alternatives out there than can improve upon the built in DAC. I am at a point now where I am curious to hear what an external DAC may have to offer in terms of sound quality. For those of you who are running a Node through an external DAC, what would you recommend and what type of improvement have you experienced vs DAC in the Node.