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Questions about Node 2i

I'm trying to work out a fairly low cost streaming solution.

Current set up is Apple TV to Schiit Modi 2 Uber and the SQ is just okay. I don't think the weak link is the Modi.

I'm trying to do this on a limited budget so looking at a BlueSound Node 2i. But I have some questions.

1) How much SQ advantage is there with the 2i over the 2. The Node 2 can be purchased used for less than $400. What! HiFi gave the 2i glorious reviews over and above the 2 but couldn't really explain why there was a difference as the DAC was not upgraded.

2) The features list says that the 2i and the 2 will play music from my own external HD but only mentions it once and does not elaborate. If I have ripped CDs in an iTunes library on a HD will it play it through the Node 2?

3) The idea of a multiroom player appeals to my wife....which is always a good thing when spending money on hi-fi stuff. But, they're basic speakers are $300 each. I'm assuming you'd need at least 2 for a room to sound decent at all. The SQ does not have to be great for this application but spending an additional $600 to get okay SQ in another room is more than I'd like to spend. Can anyone speak to the actual quality of such a set up?

4) Do powered speakers from other makers than BlueSound work with the Node 2i or 2?

5) If I have a Node 2i or 2, is there any further role for the Modi 2 Uber or any other low price DAC?

Thanks for any assistance or experience you may have to share.

George
n80

Showing 1 response by rhljazz

rhljazz
1,249 posts
 
I’ll try my best here.

1. I have the Node 2i in my main system.  I’m utilizing the internal dac and I am pleasantly surprised with the sound quality.  I have the Vault 2 in my mountain home system which is a simpler less costly system.  Again, I am pleased with the sound quality in that system.  I have not compared them in the same system.  My gut feeling is the 2i would be superior.  The WiFi options are better.  

2.  I don’t use any external sources.  There is a button in the BluOS app for configuring an external source.

3.  I also have the Pulse Flex 2i speaker.  You won’t need two for a room if you just want some tunes.  The speaker can be configured for mono operation in the BluOS app.  There are also bass and treble adjustments in the app which I have not tried.  The speaker has five presets so you can program in the stations you would use the most like Radio Paradise and any internet radio.  One speaker will fill a good sized room.  Maybe not at party levels.

4. Very unlikely.

5.  No.
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