Connection options from Node to Denafrips Iris to Pontus

For a good entry level streamer, that will work with your incoming Denafrips gear: Bluesound Node 130 ($499 new, $300 used), the new Node X ($750 new, $600 used), the Eversolo DMP-A6 ($850....they are in such high demand that you'll not find them used I don't think)

That's a good, better, better option list.....best will cost more.....the Pulse mini looks like a great option if the money is available

I will say that I have had the Node 130 for 2 years, and the with the Iris/Pontus II combo for just less than that. I have not once said to myself that this combo didn't sound good. I have tested (and will upgrade to) an Aurender/Innuous/Lumin at some point, but not running out the door right now to do it....but those units all sound great with the Pontus as well; and I've had 4 different units in to test.

My NODE has a USB out and I have always used it connected to my Gustard X26 PRO, now in my second system. Posters are thinking of older models which did not have it. Use it, that way the dac's clock will be used instead of the Node's which will be disabled. All other connections use the Node's, which is inferior.

vthokie83 and soix,

So for me; the real question is, does the Pulsemini deliver enough of a boost in SQ to warrant the cost?  I know it's an unaswerable question really.  Is it $1000 better than a newer node?  $500-600 better than an Eversolo?  Or any potential streamer out there.  I don't like to buy things twice, so to speak, but I don't want to spend $$$'s on equipment that doesn't give a ROI...First World problems....

the real question is, does the Pulsemini deliver enough of a boost in SQ to warrant the cost?

Unfortunately I don’t know never having heard either so I’ll just share the way I’d think about it.  If I got the Node or Eversolo I’d do it understanding that maybe not too far down the road I’d make the jump to a significantly better streamer.  With the Pulse Mini, especially with adding an external LPS that’s said to put the Zen Mini on the level of the Zen, I’d consider holding onto that longer term and upgrade other equipment instead.  That’s all I got and hope it’s somewhat helpful.

The Innuos Pulse mini was the best upgrade I’ve ever made. Was worth the wait saving for it. Then the linear power supply addition was a pleasant addition. Came into some nickels and along with other equipment, I was able to get the Pulse. Can’t tell whether it is better than before because it now all sounds great 😊. Moral is save and save.