2. digital
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Got a Node 2i, what's next?

So, I admit that I'm not much of a digital guy.  I ordered an Node 2i for the main HT system mostly for Amazon HD.  Much better than roku --> Denon AVR-X3600.  I liked it so much I ordered another for my previously all analog 2 channel system.

It's not bad, and convenient. Not even close to vinyl on the same release and level matched recordings, but then again, I didn't expect it to be.  I keep reading about how you can easily improve the sound by adding in an external DAC.  Here's where I get confused.

I don't want to spend a lot on a DAC, because at best it's a secondary source.  I'd feel comfortable in the $500 - $1000 range, but I'm really confused over the options and how they relate to sound quality.

First, r/2r vs I guess delta sigma?  What are the sonic advantages of either, there are widely differing opinions there.  I understand how each works from reading around, but how does it relate to sound quality?

Second, multibit vs whatever else.  Same basic questions, what are the basic sound characteristics of each?

Third, oversampling or no.

And lastly, what bitrate/bit depth is considered adequate?  24/192 seems to be standard but some dacs only have 24/128 over optical.  Will this make any difference real world with HD streaming?  I also have an old NAD cd player with coax digital out I might want to hook up for kicks.

I've researched three so far, the Denefrips Ares II, , the Schiit offerings below $1K, and the Cambridge Audio DacMagic 200M.  I would like to have balanced outputs to keep the digital circuitry as far away from the analog stuff as possible.

Thanks in advance for your answers.



vinylzone

Showing 1 response by larry5729

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larry5729
1,016 posts
 
I love my BlueSound Node 2i.  The dealer talked me in to adding a ProJect S2 DAC and I felt the bass sounded thin.  I sold the DAC on Audiogon for half price.  I still would like to hear crisper highs.  Maybe it is time for new speakers.  I stream Tidal and love it.  I would be curious to hear some more expensive DAC’s.  However I think the difference in sound quality is like splitting hairs.  I think there must be a time when you say enough is enough and be satisfied with what you have.

What still amazes me is how very few people own a stereo system.  A realtor has been sending me listings of homes on the market in our area for years and I yet to speakers in any of their rooms.  People buy $7,000 entertainment cabinets with a wide screen TV and they are listening to the speakers on their TV.  You have got to be kidding me.  A lot of these homes are on the market for over $1 million.
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