I have not tested against a BS node. But I have tested an iPAD streaming from the Qobuz app hard wired to my DAC via USB. I was surprised how good it sounded streaming 24/96. Maybe a little bit flatter sound stage than my streamer but still purdy good. Cool thing is you can down load the files local to the iPAD and stream them from there with Qobuz and I expect other high end streaming services.
iOS wired thru decent DAC vs BS Node 2i alone
Has anyone compared this type of setup (I.e., an iPhone or iPad going to something like a Denafrips Ares II, Topping D90 SE, or similar level DAC into an integrated amp (all connections wired and streaming from a premium music subscription service app) versus Bluesound Node device using BluOS as controller and no external DAC?
Just had a Node 2i completely stop talking to BluOS after only 18 months, early indications from the tech support persons from both Bluesound and Crutchfield aren’t optimistic, and I am not too keen on going the dedicated streamer plus control app route again. I can deal with taking a SMALL hit on SQ to gain more long-term durability here but hate to experience a significant real-world-audible downgrade…