Using a Dac Magic 100 via coax. A lot more open and better soundstage than the bluesound node 2i alone. The node 2i on its own might sound good if you are listening to some wireless speakers but in a halfway decent system it leaves something to be desired on its own. Fortunately, had Dac Magic which I used with a CCA which didn't sound a whole lot worse than the node 2i when run via optical into DAC. FWIW. The aptx and other conveniences of the bluesound means I will probably keep it until I hit the number and can replace with something significantly better but ... it isn't the be all and end all of audio devices IMHO.
External DAC connection for Bluesound Node 2i (after "Another streaming newbie" thread)
Guys, just following recent topic raised by chuckccs, I found myself in similar situation because I was comparing Bluesound Node 2i sound via its analogue RCA output with its sound via external DAC (M2Tech Young DSD with external power supply). Difference was really marginal, especially taking into account additional cost of external gear (DAC, cable, PS). I connected Node to DAC via coaxial output, however not tried the optical connection.
From those who got substantially better sound from Node 2i via external DAC I would like to ask which connection they used (coaxial or optical) and which cable they recommend, maybe also which DAC they used too. Thank you!
From those who got substantially better sound from Node 2i via external DAC I would like to ask which connection they used (coaxial or optical) and which cable they recommend, maybe also which DAC they used too. Thank you!