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Suggestions for a DAC/Streamer to replace BlueOS Node Streamer

First of all I’m not a “hifi nut” and not looking to replace any other gear, cables, power supplies, conditioners etc. Music is just one hobby. I stream Apple music via Apple play; that’s it (replaced Quboz with Apple for several reasons). My 2 channel gear is the said Node, an MC2700, an MC462 and a pair of BW 801D4. I have a CD collection that was ripped and resides on an SSD drive connected to the Node. A rarely used source. I have a Magnum Dynlab FM tuner for the occasional radio listening so don’t need a digital radio signal. I don’t use headphones. There seem to be “good/great/fantastic” DACs out anywhere from ~ $500 to 5K+. Seems like I’d benefit from replacing the NODE with something complementary to my existing gear to improve the sound presented to my ears. I’d appreciate some suggestions. 

Surjio

sengha
sengha OP
6 posts
 

@dinosore. Thanks, I concur. I did listen to WAV files ripped from my CDs via USB into the NODE and out via optical to my C2700 etc. Boy! What a difference to Airplay. Blown away. I’m thinking of PC to NODE for now via USB and replace NODE with maybe Cambridge EXN100 when it ships. Same USB in from PC but XLR out to the C2700. The EXN100 seems to have alot of other nice features/music sources as well as a great DAC from what I read.

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,966 posts
 


Eversolo won’t work via USB with your McIntosh pre.    I have been waiting since June for this to be corrected.   Unit worked flawlessly for almost a year.    FW 1.2.98 rendered USB inoperable with McIntosh DA2 card.   

campoly's avatar
campoly
64 posts
 

I have the Eversolo DMP-A6 ME and it has worked flawlessly until the last update. Now Roon doesn’t see it on the network unless I reboot my router every morning.

sengha OP
6 posts
 

Sadly confirmed what many have said. Lossless Apple Music is only playable via a dongle attached to iphone/ipad that’s feeding an external DAC. Might do that or re-look at other streaming options and purchase songs/CDs they don’t have and have them on USB drive.

toro3's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
toro3
345 posts
 

Apple is a great streaming service, but they really attempt to keep you in their ecosystem which can be limiting. Unsure if you’ve checked lately, but Tidal’s Global and Indian categories have grown over the past three years - may be worth checking out. 
 

And if Tidal meets your needs I would use Soundiiz to transfer playlists and albums from Apple Music to Tidal, and then utilize Tidal Connect with your Cambridge EXN100. Tidal Connect will be lossless while allowing you to stay within the Tidal UI for controlling (playing) and exploring music. Food for thought.

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