Node 2i what is better at that price, just need the streamer section?

The Node offers the best in terms of streaming options for the price. If you need those options, then consider a 'better' DAC to replace the Node's DAC.

If you want high rez playback, like Tidal/Qobuz, then Aurrender, Innuos, etc. will be ones to consider, albeit at a higher cost.

My recommendation for your friend-

Get the Node, and buy a used Ayre Codex. It will be a little over his budget, but should be a very capable combo that will allow him to upgrade without spending much more, should he desire.

Bob

Any better SQ requires more work. A friend that wants to stay that needs simple.

I’d recommend an iFi Zen Stream ($399 new) and a Musician Draco DAC ($750 new).  I have the Zen Stream and Musician Pegasus, which is a great combo, but according to reviews at stereonews.net the Draco offers almost all the performance of the Pegasus for $500 less.  Plus, your friend can look forward to significant upgrades in the future if desired and budget allows by upgrading the power supply of the Zen Stream and adding a DDC like the Musician Pisces or Denafrips Iris that’d allow him to take advantage of the Draco’s i2S input.  Just my $0.02 FWIW. 

I really like the Cambridge Audio CXN 60 streamer/DAC combo, which also offers the very useful features of Chromecast and AirPlay.  It costs a couple hundred above the $1 G budget but perhaps a used can be had 

A consideration separate from the hardware choice of a streamer is the interface to the music library. The Bluesound control software is simple, very well designed and powerful, less intimidating for someone new to streaming than some of the other options. 

BS Node proly safe harbor but there is a Bryston BDP-Pi on here for less than $600.  Manic Moose interface is a bit Spartan but it does work with Tidal and Qobuz.  Add a Schiit DAC for $300 and you got a great starter kit.   There are reviews to be read on the Pi. 

I wouldn’t inflict Manic Moose on someone who is new to streaming 

Is there really a difference in the streamer section between the Node 2, 2i, and 130 or current model? I’ve also been told power supply goes out as they age is that true and drops out? What about Mac mini only other I know is Auralic mini or Aries. 

A used Node 2 is hard to beat as a steamer for the price and versatility.  Still using mine in a 3rd system and after many years no problems whatsoever.

Thanks for everyone’s help. Friend ended up buying a Denafrips Aries and a Auralic Aries femto clock version. Now he has to buy some cheap used power cable and digital cable. It never ends.