Any advantage to Bluesound Node 2i Versus Streaming from PC


I'm trying a loaner Bluesound Node 2i streamer which salesperson said will sound better than streaming from my PC.  I doubted this since both are just feeding a digital signal to my Amp.  It's just zeros and ones right?   I have the Bluesound connected with a decent (not high end) digital coaxial cable to my Lyngdorf 3400.  The PC is connected with a cheap USB cable to the same Lyngdorf.  The sensitivity of both inputs is set to 0dB.  The bluesound is set to fixed volume and the PC volume is set to max.  I am playing Tidal through both input devices.  I am trying to discern if there is any difference in sound quality.  When played through the amp the bluesound volume is a whole lot louder than the PC.  I have not found a way to level match the two inputs for comparison.  The bluesound sounds good and is a lot louder per any particular volume setting on the amp.  Does this mean the Bluesound is sending a better signal to the amp?  Is the  coaxial cable a better medium to transmit the  audio signal?  Is this the reason it's louder?  Could the Tidal feed through Bluesound be better than the Tidal Desktop app on my PC?  I need some help as I have to decide by Saturday whether to keep the Bluesound or return it. Other than sound quality there are only minor advantages to owning the Bluesound which don't warrant the purchase.  My amp has a built in streamer but no built in Tidal (which is the reason I'm using the PC.)
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Showing 1 response by jred

MacBook Pro to Yggdrasil 

wav 16/48, and Spotify 

Regarding USB -  I’ve heard many of times that the Belkin USB cable for around  $12 tops has received great ratings. A step up. Audio quest Black Carbon USB. 

Further step up. TWL USB. 
I have the audio quest black carbon. Great for the price, though the sound seems a bit congested in comparison to the TWL. Bass is tighter on the Black Carbon. TWL performs much better overall. Bass is not as tight though the music is more “open”. Not as grey. 
I haven’t delved into streamers. My MacBook Pro is chugging along well. Your mileage may vary. 
I’d try some recommendations of various USB. Obtain a decent dB reader. Experiment with various USB’s and perhaps crutchfield or music direct has a longer trial period. I’d return the  streamer if you’re on the fence. You can always purchase again with more research and different gear to determine what works best for you and your system. Deadlines regarding returns and hard earned money do not equate. If you’re questioning. Well there’s your answer. 
When going digital imo. Keep it as simple as possible. Those firmware updates can be a real pain in the neck 

Best Luck!