A DAC chip adds very little to the cost of a device like the Node 2i.
I have one and keep disconnecting it (to reduce clutter), then wanting to reconnect just because it is so versatile. The DAC is easily bypassed. But its features include programmable remote control, basic bass management, multi-room play, and streaming services that overlap with what Roon offers. Using the Node 2i, for instance, I can set up playlist buttons on a handheld IR remote, then rapidly switch between TV and Jazz/Indie music. Dunno how to do this using only Roon and a programmable remote.
I have one and keep disconnecting it (to reduce clutter), then wanting to reconnect just because it is so versatile. The DAC is easily bypassed. But its features include programmable remote control, basic bass management, multi-room play, and streaming services that overlap with what Roon offers. Using the Node 2i, for instance, I can set up playlist buttons on a handheld IR remote, then rapidly switch between TV and Jazz/Indie music. Dunno how to do this using only Roon and a programmable remote.