I also am a long time BS Node user. Started with their first one and have been using their latest N130 for quite a while now and Like it very much. The only reason I have never upgraded was because I like the operating system. After reading and hearing how much the streamer matters, I purchased a used Lumin U2 mini on here just to get the curiosity out of the way. I unfortunately have some things that are bothering me before I even get it which should be on Monday. I like using my laptop to control the Node which is a big plus because I like to surf the web while listening to music. The Lumin app is not Windows based so I can either use my phone or buy either an inexpensive Chrome Book, Tablet etc... which I ordered a Samsung tablet so we will see how that goes. I know I can use Roon via my Windows laptop so that is another thought before I decide to open the Tablet.
New streamer
I recently opened a discussion on upgrading my DAC. I started at the beginning of that discussion, that I was a vinyl guy, but with my purchase of the Chord Qutest, I realized that digital music can be outstanding and want to now upgrade my Node.
That will provide 2 benefits: Maximizing my current systems digital, and allow me to move the Node & Schiit Modi Multibit 2 to the family room, a small HT setup with a Yamaha AVR driving a Goldenear soundbar. Streaming there is currently MusicCast using the AVR DAC. The improvement there should be very nice.
My 2 channel equipment is as follows:
Rogue RP-1 w/ NOS Brimar’s, LSA Warp 1, KEF R11’s, Rhythmic F12SE, Pro-ject 1Xpression w/Hana ML, Rega Aria, Bluesound Node w/Qubuz, Marantz CD6007, Chord Qutest. Good to very good power, speaker, interconnect cables.
My weakest link (I believe) is now my Node.
I don’t want or need amplification or volume control, ripping storage, nor an internal DAC. Sound signature should be neutral.
My budget is $2,500, but willing to spend less. My current favorites are:
Lumin U2 mini. Very well reviewed, beautiful, perfect form factor, good app & controllable via my Harmony One remote. It is currently my #1 choice.
Auralic Aris. If new, the G1.1, if used G2.0 or 2.1. Very well reviewed, good app, OK form factor, but not controllable via harmony.
Naim ND5 XS2. Considered the best high end streamer by What Hi Fi Would need to buy used to stay close to budget.
EverSolo DMP-A6. Included based upon reviews, but may not be a serious contender.
HiFi Rose RS250A. The streamer EverSolo seemed to copy
Aurender. Don’t think they have anything within my budget, but included for discussion.
LPS upgrade for Node. Included because I know it will come up. Plan to reuse my node downstairs, so out. Would prefer LPS upgrade for one of the above.
Please let me know your thoughts and/or recommendations. Thanks!
Showing 7 responses by evank
@signaforce I'm using a Pontus II 12th-1 and an Iris DDS via i2s |
@signaforce I get the tablet thing but call me old school I still use a mouse. LOL |
My Lumin U2 mini arrived and setup was a snap. I'm running it USB out to Denafrips Iris then i2s to Pontus II 12th-1. As I expected it took about 20 minutes to figure out how to get tidal to play. seem to have an issue playing a saved playlist from Tidal. It will play a few tracks and then stops. The playlist has 71 tracks and will play a few then stop and go back to the first track. If I select a song from the middle of the playlist it doesn't continue on to the next song, it just stops. I'm wondering if i should try tidal connect? I know it's to early to say if it sounds better than the BS Node in my setup but at this point it's not much. The BS Node has a warmer presentation while this might be more open sounding. I will follow up later. |
@avbronco32 I tried Linn Kazoo but ca t get Tidal to show up. It downloads with Qobuz but I use Tidal. Do you know how? |