2. digital
  3. 178465-148180

Node 3 or Better Streamer

Currently have a node 2i and has been paired in the past with a Mcintosh MA252, Cambridge 80 and a Primaluna Dialogue Premium. The speakers I use are JBL 4312SE 70Th anniversary edditions and pretty happy with them. So far I have liked the way the node sounded with the tube amp but I am looking at the Technics SU G700 and was going to upgrade to Node 3 as I need the hdmi arc for my tv. I am wondering if there is a huge difference like in a WOW effect by spending another $500-$1000 in a better streamer over the node 3? Again it has to be a huge noticeable improvementI, only do Tidal as my source.

TIA.

vinylmasta

Showing 2 responses by christianb5s4

christianb5s4
238 posts
 

For that budget, I'd stick with the Node 3 and upgrade the power supply from PDcreative. I've found you have to spend at least double or triple that to potentially get a noticeable improvement.

 

Or you can combine the classifieds and find a deal on a much better streamer at a discount versus retail.

christianb5s4
238 posts
 

Plus upgrading the power supply makes the biggest difference if you're using the internal DAC. If you're using an external DAC, the upgrade has a smaller effect at least in my experience.

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