Upgrade ....streamer or amp?


Having decided to keep my Merlin TSM MMs, I was going to upgrade my streamer (Bluesound Node 2 ---original version) and my amp ( Billie....original version). However, recent stock market activity has my IRA in a shambles, so I am only going to upgrade only one of the two. 

Any thoughts on which to start with?  I was considering both the Bluesound Node Icon, and an upgraded Billie (used....after new one comes out)

What say you?

troutbum

If you have a separate DAC look at Wiim.  I'm using the Ultra because I wanted to be able to stream music off of a HD and use a separate DAC (MHDT)

f it was my money, I'd recommend you upgrade to an outboard DAC, I do not see the sound improving much doing another streamer. A quality DAC is going to have the largest increase in sound considering your options. A streamer’s internal DAC is generally not that great overall. And the streamer itself is a minor improvement if at all within a reasonable budget.  

The Blue OS is actually quite good as far as streamer OS’s go. Better than the Aurender conductor app by far from my experience.  I’ve had a few streamers now and after my time with an overpriced Aurender I ended up back to the Blue-sound streamer (Vault2i), I have an excellent DAC so it’s not that noticeable. And if I'm honest the OS/App for the streamer to me is the number one thing to consider when buying a streamer.   

Try an outboard quality DAC and see how things sound. I’m betting that’s your sweet spot in your choices.  

Honestly, if you think you have been affected by the stock market so far, I think you better save your money. If things keep going as they are what we have seen so far is only a prelude.. a small blip. 

You are probably right, but at least I'll go out streaming Van Morrison and Mark Knopfler.