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Budget External DAC Recommendations

I just upgraded my Audioengine B1 Bluethooth receiver (using iTunes) to a Bluesound Node 2i (streaming Tidal Hifi) and the increase in sound quality is shocking.  It has me wondering if I can make another incremental increase in SQ by purchasing an external DAC.  Will a $400 - $500 DAC substantially best the DAC in the Bluesound Node 2i?

I am looking at the used market and have narrowed my choices down to (in no particular order):

- Chord Mojo
- Benchmark DAC-1
- PS Audio Digital Link III
- Denafrips Ares II

Which is the best? What else should I be considering? Also, for those who have heard the Node 2i's DAC, how does the DAC you recommend change the sound quality?

My system includes the Node 2i, Rogue Cronus Magnum and Totem Hawk speakers.

Thanks for any suggestions!
stewbombs
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
910 posts
 
Might throw in the Peachtree iDAC. ESS 9016 Sabre implementation. Compared well with other $1K DACS of that day. Can be found for <$500.  Is an upsampling DAC
They also made the Sona DAC/Pre that was a 9018 and did DSD. Dont know what those go for used though
big_greg
6,567 posts
 
Replacing a pretty good DAC with a slightly better DAC seems like throwing good money after bad.  The Node 2 has a pretty decent DAC (with the qualifier "for the money"). 

The only thing that jumps to mind for me close to your price range is the Schiit Bifrost 2.  You could probably find a used one in your budget.  Better than the DAC in the Node 2, but it won't provide a dramatic increase in sound quality.  The Bifrost will have more detail and be a little "warmer".  

Sell the Node 2 and see if you can find a used TEAC NT-505.
kully560
47 posts
 
there is several schiit bifrost  on us audiomart now if you are interested
mahler123
3,093 posts
 
I’ve used the Node with a Digital Link III, which had been sitting unused on a shelf after upgrading.  I was using the Node in a second system, actually a HT system with a $1K Denon AVR 5.1.  The Node, of course was playing in Stereo.  I didn’t hear a lot of improvement, so when I upgraded the AVR I returned the DLinkIII to the closet.  I was thinking about pulling out again to use with the new AVR.  Just my experience 
jetter
2,972 posts
 
There are a number of people who believe the Node 2i makes a great streamer in and of itself and adding the external DAC brings it to a whole new level. And as you know the Bluesound app is great.

The DAC in the 2i really is just ok once you have compared it with a good external DAC. I wish I could recommend a good budget DAC for you but I have only heard and use with my 2i an older Museatex Meitner Bitstream DAC modded by an individual who originally worked with Meitner, so no real frame of reference with the new improved flavors. But I think you are on a good path forward looking for a good new DAC.
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