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Node2i + Qutest or Yggy or Codex or something else

Need help to decide ...

Which is a better choice for me:
Chord Qutest
Schiit Yggy
Ayre Codex 
Some other DAC

to go with the following system I have:
Sonus Faber Venere 3
Parasound P5 and A23
Bluesound Node 2i

Music:
Mostly classical music especially symphonies 
Jazz, rock, pop, vocal

Environment:
hardwood floor 


I am not getting the clarity and the sound stage I want when I listen to symphonies like Beethoven Symphony 5 or Violin Concerto.  

Is an external DAC the right solution? Or a better amp?

thanks.

pc_audio
gdnrbob
4,419 posts
 
I use the Node with an Ayre Codex.
John Rutan had a side by side demo between the onboard DAC and the Codex.
The difference was clear.
I also can say that the Schiit Gungnir or Yggy should provide approximately the same level of sound quality.
To be fair the onboard DAC of the Node isn't bad considering the price it sells for and you get network connectivity.
Bob
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,397 posts
 
You are asking about clarity and soundstaging. My first question is, are you using room treatments? 
You may benefit from a DAC, but your room is a major factor in obtaining focus, imaging, and soundstage.


pc_audio OP
12 posts
 
I'm not really doing any room treatment nor know how to do it.

I have hardwood floor and will not be able to put carpet or rug on it.
I have tray ceiling with a ceiling fan. And to make things worse, I have window with blinds to the left of the system because it's in my family room.  And I have open kitchen behind my family room.  So, it's definitely not an ideal listening environment.


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mayoradamwest
429 posts
 
The Chord Hugo 2 can easily be found used in your price range. I highly recommend it. Haven’t heard the Ayre, but I’m sure it’s also fantastic. 
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
Audioadvisor.com has the Auralic Altair on sale for 1699.00. Very good dac and much better streamer than your using now. If not that, a used Auralic Vega is a great match with the node 2i. They are a steal at the 13-1500 used price range
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