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best SQ improvement DAC under $1000 to pair with Bluesound Node 2i

I found myself streaming more often than analog. Although, I will listen to vinyl occasionally, Streaming has great benefits. I have a Node 2i for 6 months now. Want to improve SQ as closest to analog as possible. Unfortunately, my budget tops at $1000. I would like to ask audiophiles who have the Node 2i which DAC  has given you the best improvement over the Node 2i. 

128x128lobinero
troidelover1499
253 posts
 

At a friend’s recommendation I got a Schiit Gungnir Multi bit and it is a very nice sounding DAC. Clear but musical.  I felt it was an improvement over a RME dac I had before that.

lobinero's avatar
lobinero OP
74 posts
 

My goal for adding an external DAC  is  open soundstage, better melodical definition and clearer instrumentation separation. Not necessarily clinical but more toward tube sound.

dj_w
6 posts
 

I paired my Node2i with a Border Patrol DAC (tube rectified) and it has delivered exactly what you described above.  Musical, great soundstaging and separation, easy to listen to. Base price is $1,075, so a slight reach over budget.

I’ve been more than satisfied, bordering on thrilled. 

soix
8,822 posts
 

I’d recommend the Musician Pegasus R2R DAC.  It’s $1099 but worth the stretch if you can.  Here’s a review in case it helps...

https://soundnews.net/sources/dacs/musician-audio-pegasus-r2r-dac-review/

arafiq's avatar
arafiq
1,599 posts
 

Based on your desired attributes, I think a Denafrips Ares II DAC will be ideal.

A British Audiophile -- Denafrips Ares II Review

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