Replacement/upgrade for Bluesound and Chord Mojo 2 streamer/external DAC combo


Greetings, I am looking for an alternative to my streamer/DAC combination.  Currently using Bluesound NODE N130 only as a source (Spotify/Tidal/local music library) feeding my Chord Mojo 2. Mojo 2 is designed to be a headphone DAC/Amp, but it has better use as an external DAC feeding my integrated amplifier for home audio use, better sound than running it direcly via the Bluesound.  The USB port in the Bluesound connects my music library stored in an SSD, so USB connection to Mojo 2 (supposedly give better signal) is no longer an option.   

Looking on how to improve my setup:
- Upgrade kit and linear PSU for the bluesound.  Many reviews commented on the quality upgrade in Bluesound from the kit, but wonder if anyone has any experience with the upgrade kit (from PD creative or other brands) improvement on Bluesound when running through external DAC? Will it be a noticeable or marginal difference, since i am already using Mojo 2?

- Replace the Mojo 2 with other dedicated external DAC

- Replace the Bluesound and Mojo 2 all together and find a better streamer/DAC alternative? Cambridge CXNv2 came across to my mind, 

My current setting:
- Accuphase E-380 integrated amplifier and Nordost Blue Heaven power cord
- Dynaudio Evoke 10 and Nordost Red Dawn speaker cable
- Bluesound NODE N130, a Taiwanese made RCA to mini coax cable and an aftermarket power cable (not clear what brand, but thick enough cable for the Bluesound)
- Chord Mojo 2 and Nordost Blue Heaven iKable 3.5mm to RCA cable

Not looking to spend much $$$ for the streamer/DAC alternative and not planning to replace my other components, as i am content enough with the rest.  Any comment/feedback is appreciated.
 

nothelle

Showing 1 response by trivema

+1 upgrade Node power supply, R2R DAC (Denafrips Ares), add IRIS DDC for best results.  Mojo vs R2R different sound signature, Chords are detailed and transparent with punch. Denafrips and R2Rs generally are more laid back, smoother, with good detail and expansive sound stage.

i have Node 2i w LPS and Topping D90 in bedroom linked to a low watt Inspire KT-88 driving Vienna Acoustics Bach speakers. Sounds really good. Also a Cambridge Audio CXN V2 linked to a Cary 300 SEI driving Klipsch Heresys in another room, also sounds really good. Warm, relaxed easy to listen to.  Finally a Pontus II + IRIS linked to a Willsenton R800i 845 driving Klipsch Forte IIIs and Focal Aria 926 in main system.  Sounds freaking amazing!! 

Look for IRIS + Ares used and upgrade Node 2i power supply would be my suggestion.