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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.
randyhat

Showing 5 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,485 posts
 
When I visited Audioconnection in NJ. Johnny demoed the Bluesound Node 2 using the internal DAC vs running through the Ayre Codex.
The Ayre was a definite step up in resolution (though the onboard DAC was no slouch).
I ended up buying the Ayre for my Node 1 and love it. The Bluesound lets me listen thoughout the house and the Ayre gives me the best sound output.
B

gdnrbob
4,485 posts
 
@williewonka 
I concur, the Schiit DAC's are pretty good. I have a Gungy (after a Modi and Bifrost Multibit). Though my Gungy isn't a Multibit, it comes close to the Codex.
As, I said, when Johnny played music first through the Bluesound and then the Codex, the difference was instantly perceptible. The Codex sounded alive.
Though, I will admit the inboard DAC on the Bluesound is not to be dismissed-especially for the price.
B
gdnrbob
4,485 posts
 
@hodu 
This is only my opinion, but...
DAC technology is evolving quickly. I would be hesitant to spend major dollars for a DAC as it will be surpassed in the near future, hence, my choice of Ayre and Schiit. They are reasonably priced and have a good history for providing upgrades.
I have no experience with Mytek. I know they are well respected, but do not know if their DAC's can be upgraded. 
Bob
gdnrbob
4,485 posts
 
@williewonka
I don’t know what cables were used, but I do recall that the cabling was not cheapo stuff. Besides, we’re talking about AudioConnection, Johnny has given me way more advice and help than I have given him sales.
When I say I heard a distinct improvement using the Codex over the onboard Bluesound DAC, I meant it.
And, it is not to say that changing power cords won't aid in sound reproduction.
B
gdnrbob
4,485 posts
 
@janehamble 
I use Spotify almost exclusively. I had Tidal for a while, but they didn't have a great classical library and I just don't get hip-hop.
Sound-wise, Spotify is great. I suspect they will go to higher definition, as there have been posts that they are offering it to a select group of subscribers. As far as MQA, I will wait for the dust to settle.
B
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