Physically connect a Bluesond Node 2i to a downline, stand alone Chord Qutest DAC

Another option is to connect your Node to your preamp via its analog outputs to one input, then run a digital cable to your Chord with the analog outputs of the Chord connected to another input on your preamp.  Both digital and analog outputs function at the same time from the Node.  Now you can directly compare the sound of the Node by itself versus the Chord sourced by the Node by simply switching the source selector on your preamp.
 I have done this in my big system.  All of my system components are powered through a Shunyata Hydra Triton except the Chord Hugo which is battery powered.  The Node holds its own, not quite as detailed but exhibits other attributes that are also compelling.
 I have chosen to use the Nodes analog outputs and use the Hugo as my dac for cd playback.  Your results may differ.

Yes, the digital out from the Node bypasses the internal dac.  Therefore a straight comparison between dac of the Node versus the dac of the Chord is possible.  All you need to do is switch inputs on your preamp.  You will also need to adjust the volume control since the sound level between the two will likely not be the same.  In my case, volume compensation was necessary.