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Point of higher priced streamer?

Hello,
Assuming I have separate DAC, and I just want to play songs from iPad by Airplay feature.
In this case, I need a streamer to receive music from my iPad -> DAC.

What’s the point of high price streamer? I’m bit surprised that some streamers are very high priced.
From my understanding, there should be no sound quality difference.
(Streaming reliability and build quality, I can see it but I do not see advantages in terms of sound quality.)

Am I missing something? If so, please share some wisdom.
128x128sangbro

Showing 2 responses by lowrider57

lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,402 posts
 
How to Bypass Node 2i?”

Bluesound should give an option to omit DAC.
To bypass the Node internal DAC, simply use a digital coax cable from Node to external Dac.
Select Dac as your source on the preamp/amp.

You're not bypassing the Node, that's the streamer, you're bypassing the internal DAC.


lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,402 posts
 
I know one reason the Node2i may not measure up to other streamers: the power supply. It is a small SMPS. That's why there are upgrade kits being sold which are more robust and use a linear PS. Even with the stock PS, a higher quality power cord is an upgrade. 

The Node is built to a certain price point, has good sound, and doesn't claim to be more than it is. I haven't compared mine to other streamers, but in combination with a very fine DAC, my CD playback is superior.


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