I'm another one for the Bluesound Node. Simply the best price:performance ratio along with the best UX for any streamer. I've owned both the Node 2i and the current Node and I've been extremely happy with them. Buy a good power cable and RCA cables and it's a great sounding streamer.
You can go up from there but it's hard to find things that are really worth the price increase. I've owned the CXN at 2x the cost and it's a great streamer, but the lack of native Roon support caused me to return it to buy the newest Node. At 4x the cost, the NAD option is pretty good. Same UX as it uses the BluOS, but it's not any better sounding then the CXN at less the cost. The Arcam also falls into the category of costing more then the CXN with not as good SQ. The Lumin D2 is excellent at 5x the cost of the Node, and is where I'd upgrade to as you're not sacrificing anything but it's a huge price jump. The HiFi Rose streamers are also good sounding, but very glitchy at a high price. The Simaudio Moon 280d is amazing, but very expensive and the UX isn't as good unless you're running Roon.
Personally, my reference system runs the Moon 280d and my secondary system is running the current Bluesound Node. I'm very happy with both units, but if I do upgrade the next thing will be going from the Node to a Lumin D2.
Best streamer for a returning audio guy
Hello, hope you all can help. My question is what is the most reasonable streamer to try in my system to see if it works for me?
A little background is in order . I’m an older gentleman, who was into audio years ago. I’m currently rebuilding my system with newer technology. I have significant older components. Such as Adcom separates, ( not currently using), Yamaha reciever rxa 2000 as a preamp, Rotel amp driving center speaker and rears, crown class d driving main speakers, I have many speaker choices. Currently using Kef 105/2 as mains ( have Martin Logan’s as well) , Martin logan cinema as center, Martin Logan’s a rear surround. All interconnects and speaker wires are morrow audio.
I am / was old school with over 1500 vinyl album’s from years of collecting. About 100 cds. One interesting note, this rebirth of my interest in audio came with my wife giving me a turntable for Christmas several years ago. Finally joked it up and after 30 years I was hooked again!!!
On to my question, it appears that almost everyone is now streaming their music. Ok, I understand the concept ( have Sirius in the car) . What is the best unit to try this out. Can’t break the bank, used is ok, actually preferred. Any outlet advice would be appreciated.
I’m working to eventually get to the level of most of you. I have visited my local real hi fi store and have heard the”great” components and eventually I’ll get there. Thanks, and looking forward to your replies. Twodogs112.