2. digital
  3. 174515-2325

How critical is streamer hardware to SQ when it feeds a good DAC?

Hi all,

I currently have a Node2 connected digitally to either a Bricasti M3 or a Chord Dave. I am still evaluating which of those DACs improve the sound quality more. Suffice to say that both are a considerable upgrade. I am also thinking about replacing the Node2 with perhaps an Aurender or Auralic streamer, which I would also connect to the DAC. Once you bypass the internal DAC in the streamer, would the SQ be impacted by other elements in the streamer which would warrant such a purchase? I know a retail dealer who uses the following architecture to create an excellent sound: Roon NUC, Node, Chord mScaler, Chord Hugo, VTL Pre, VTL Amp, Fyne 704. 

Thanks

Chuck

128x128cmjones

Showing 1 response by ozzy62

ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62
3,249 posts
 

If you just do a forum search, you will find at least five or six threads about this very subject.

The Node is good at it's price point. However, it can be bettered. From a sound quality only perspective, a Raspberry Pi device can sound better, although not as user friendly. I replaced my Node 2i with a Lumin U-1 mini and there was a noticeable improvement.

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