Node 2i and $1k DAC or Cambridge CXN V2?


Yes, weird question but here is the situation.

For a year or so I had a Node 2i and used a Topping D50 DAC in my main system. I upgraded that system and moved the Node/Topping to a living room setup. I "upgraded" to an iFi Zen Stream and Schiit Modius.......

The iFi is trash, like literally, my second unit, and still has issues and is going back to the retailer. Now thinking about what I want to do for around $1k. I could move the Node 2i from the living room and put a simple Bluetooth adapter on that living room system since it’s only used for wireless audio and then spend $1k on a new DAC OR I can spend $1k on a unit like the Cambridge CXN and use the onboard DAC (and sell the modius) or use the Modius with it.

I don’t want a Pi based setup, I don’t use windows computers to set my own up and I don’t want to deal with any issues.

If using an external DAC will I notice the lower build quality issues of the Node 2i (power supply etc)? I like the idea of the Cambridge unit with the screen and the modwright upgrades in the future but is $1k better spent on a DAC? I think the under $1k DAC market though is kind of a waste of money, I’ve personally never heard a $900 DAC that was much better than a $300 DAC but I could be wrong (and quite often am) ;)

edit: I use Roon & Qobuz, so software of the streamers doesn't really matter to me. 
blkwrxwgn

Showing 3 responses by blkwrxwgn

You're right.....

I ordered the Cambridge unit and will try it against my Node 2i with modius to see how I like it.  If they sound comparable then I'll get a better DAC and try that too.
I don’t go off of reviewers thoughts on how something sounds but the whole experience he had was enough to scare me off. 
The fact they were giving him one for free for the review tells me enough.