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Usability Issues with Tidal

I’ve been using Tidal since October. So far, I’ve been less than impressed by the user experience, especially the user interface. Tonight, I was in the process of setting up my new Bluesound Node 2 with Tidal. I forgot my password so I went online to request a reset link, which is what all websites require. I don’t get the link for over an hour. Then the link came during dinner, and the email said the link would expire in 10 minutes. I tried anyway and it didn’t work. I had to ask for another password reset. Another hour later, I received an email and then I immediately tried to set a new password. It would not work. To me, this is sub-standard, especially for a “premium” service. 
They don’t have any live tech support, no chat, nada. 
Wondering what you all think about your user experiences with Tidal so far. Do you think the better SQ makes it worth it?
wakethetown

Showing 2 responses by tomcy6

tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,583 posts
 
wakethetown, The Node 2 is a $500 streamer and DAC. It will give you good but not great sound. You will probably be able to distinguish some but not all MQA albums with it. It’s not one of the "giant killers" we hear about from time to time.

If the rest of your system is fair to average, a better streamer/DAC will give you a little better sound but will not transform your system. Before you spend any more money, you might want to hang on to the Node 2 and enjoy the wide variety of music it gives you access to while you do some research.

We might be able to help you more if you tell us what your system consists of and what you would like to hear in an upgrade.
tomcy6's avatar
tomcy6
2,583 posts
 
Well wakethetown, your system is definitely 21st century audiophile quality. I would say that your cd player and the Node 2 are the weak links in your system. They are good quality but not at the level of the rest of your system.

Digital playback, both cd and streaming, have been steadily improving. Since you are satisfied with the wired Node 2, I would enjoy what you have while you look for an upgrade to your digital components. You will eventually come across a great deal on a better cd player and/or streamer, or someone will come out with one that is a big improvement at a reasonable price.

There is a lot going on in the digital world so there is no harm in waiting.  Our options are getting better.  There are components that combine the cd player and streamer, so you will have the option to replace two components with one. I think the newer Oppo units do this but I have not heard them. That’s about all the advice that I can can provide. Enjoy what you've got while you look for an upgrade.
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