Walk me thru upgrading from my BS Node


First off I like the Node, the box was easy to install, form factor is excellent for my space (in a credenza) and the UI is excellent... and it has been bulletproof in terms of connectivity in the wireless mode. I have been pleased with the audio quality, but I haven't really compared seriously an upgraded solution

However after reading quite a bit of opinions across the digital thread I am really curious as to the order of magnitude audio improvement.

Budget is around $5-7k

I need the singular physical box to be reasonably small, it is in a credenza so I don't need to see a screen, I would prefer a set and forget interface like the BS... once it is up and dialed in, I don't need to mess with it...wireless only as the cable reach is prohibitive, connected to a Manley Stingray II...streaming Qubuz only...

The message I get is that the BSN is a good starter solution, but upgrading the DAC/Streamer is worth the ride..

Where to look, the YT reviewers (with the exception of Amir) just fawn over every product they test...

poke33

AURALiC is the only option if you insist on a purely wireless one box solution. 
If you’re open to adding a WiFi extender or mesh network with an access point close enough to your system to be able to use Ethernet cable to wire the streamer you’re expanding your options to Lumin, Aurender, HiFi Rose, Bryston BDA 3.14, etc. Bryston will have the clumsiest UI. Lumin’s UI is best experienced with a tablet and AURALiC is iOS only.

The above are all streamers with a built in DAC.
 

There are also DACs with a built in Network player/renderer. Units like Bricasti, Weiss, Mola Mola. These components have no wireless capability and have no UI. You would need Roon or something like Mconnect (by far not the best UI) if you go this route. 
 

Hello APoke33, I had just this journey.

-Started with apple computer airplaying to apple TV to audio

-upgraded to Bluesound Node...nice improvement

-Added Roon Nucleus+ and bought lifetime subscription

At one point, using Roon, I had Node in one system, PowerNode in bedroom, and Pulse 2 mobile speaker.  Yes Bluesound is nice and plays well with Roon.  Istill use the Pulse 2.

-upgraded to PS Audio Direct Stream DAC w onboard streaming card (bridge)...nice improvement

-upgraded to Auralic Vega 2 Streaming DAC (can get used for under 4k)...big improvement.

-upgraded to Mola Mola Tambaqui Streaming DAC...HUGE improvement

-added Auralic Aries G2.1 Streamer...big improvement

-added Network Acoustics MUON filter system...big improvement

I was able to easily sell all the old DACs here or USA. 

Along the way I did most of the upgrades in the digital chain you discussed;

-Nucleus and my Bonn 8 switch on linear power supply (HD plex, two outputs)

-iFi Power Bar with iFi power cables and iFi power supply for the Modem.

-All the short cables are Supra Cat 8

You need a resolving system to hear all these upgrades.  Did one particular small thing make a difference?  Hard to say.  The major upgrades were obvious, but I do feel everything matters.

 

Thank you all very much... I enjoy the research almost as much as the music...let me dig into your suggestions and revert with further questions...

@poke33 The one thing I would suggest is that while great one box solutions exist, I would strongly recommend using an Ethernet connection over wireless if you decide to invest heavily in a digital source. Why? Because having the wifi in the unit introduces noise that further degrades quality. Digital signals are very delicate, and any noise leaks will result in jitter and timing errors which will result in added fatigue and slight lack of focus in the overall delivery. This is a perfect example for why the Bluesound will sound fuzzy compared to many higher end solutions. NAD’s M50.2 dedicated reference streamer for instance (recently discontinued), requires a hard connection (NAD is the maker of Bluesound). Many other brands will lean this way as well.  

Some sources to look into may be John Darko’s (Darko Audio) YouTube channel or website. There are plenty of digital source threads already here on Audiogon that will be helpful as well. I’m happy to share links if you have trouble finding them.

I did also message you direct on some thoughts.