Has anyone heard the Bluesound Node Icon streamer DAC?

My rule of thumb is that in order to upgrade (since I always research and find the best sounding component of my taste for the money) you must invest at least 2x the cost... and in the budget realm 3x. So I recommend looking at components in the $3K or higher... used is a good way to bring down the cost.

@ghdprentice 

you must invest at least 2x the cost...

In some cases, maybe. In my case turntables, cartridges, 3x or more was my last upgrade to get a transformative improvement. Significantly better engineering and materials cost a lot more and in some cases, is worth it.

Electronics not so much. 

I just bought a new phono stage that cost 5X LESS than what it replaced. 

The NODE N130 (2021) is a ridiculous bargain at $400 and easily upgraded with an LPS, external DAC for very reasonable cost.   

While I have no doubt a $20K digital source will best my set modest digital set up and the $35K source bested the ICON in subtle ways, there is a LOT one could do with the $34K left over!

@fosolitude If you decide to give it a go, report back please. Amazon allows 30 day returns. I did this with the Eversolo A8 at double the cost - no issues get a speedy refund. Just keep all packaging (obviously) and don’t remove any protective film. Take a pic of  how it’s packaged. 

Gotcha 

I own a Bluesound icon. Also have a Black Ice tube day And use A Mac C2600 with a Da2 Dac. Cant tell the difference between the 3 of them. Albeit all 3 are what I consider mid tier Dacs. I can't tell which one I'm using. 

I agree with the advice to buy on Amazon to try and return if you’re not satisfied.  Suggest getting Prime if you don’t have it already.  They have so much equipment you can get delivered for free and return for free with Prime.  I’ve done the same with Best Buy but you only get 15 days unless you have one of their plans.  All the advice in the world won’t replace what you hear with your own ears in to your system in your listening room playing the music you love.  For what it’s worth I have the Node N130.  I upgraded to an external DAC first and then to a separate streamer.  I noticed an improvement in sound in both cases.  I still use the Node in a second system.  I like the BluOs app which works well with Qobuz and other streaming services.  Please share your feedback and enjoy the ride on the next part of your musical journey.