Streamer Advice: Bluesound Node 2 vs Aries Mini vs Oppo


Hello,

I know a lot of these advice threads already exist, and plenty of useful info from those. I’m looking for a network streamer with a budget of $500 ($600 is my absolute max). I’ll be playing my own redbook quality FLAC files, and streaming via Tidal. The Bluesound Node 2 and Auralic Aries Mini each check a lot of boxes for me, but I’m having a hard time finding an Aries Mini for sale.

My questions are...

Is there a significant benefit to the Aries Mini over the Bluesound Node 2? If folks think I’m better off with the Aries Mini I don’t mind waiting, and continuing the search for one.

And would an Oppo BDP-103 or BDP-105 be a better choice compared to either the Bluesound or Auralic?

I can’t afford the prices that Oppo UDP models are fetching, but I’m finding a lot of BDP-103s between $300-$500 and even some BDP-105s around $500-$600.

Having a Blu-Ray, CD, SACD player coupled with streaming is very enticing. Since Oppo’s digital components are no longer in production my hesitation is software support potentially going away.

Thanks, and cheers!
- MD


128x128stereosanctity
@rhljazz 

Thanks for sharing!  What DAC are you using with your Node 2i?

I'm definitely settled on picking up a Node 2i.

Great question. I’ve got a nuprime Evolution DAC on order. If he uses the Bluesound DAC, I’m glad to hear it. 
I’m using the internal dac which is the impressive part.  The 2i is plugged into a Shunyata Hydra.  Cabling to the preamp is Morrow MA3.  I am just now past the 100 hour mark.  My systems are on my page.
Back to the Ethernet connection on the 2i:  Do I have to use this to make it work?  I don't have a LAN line in the room I plan on installing the 2i and introducing an adapter doesn't seem like a good idea.  Can't I just use this via wifi?  I'm streaming Tidal and Pandora thru an Audioengine B1 (eg via Bluetooth) which is looking long in the tooth. 
@russellrcncom - I don't own the Bluesound, but I'm interested in their products and I've discussed this with a local dealer.....

For the Node 2i, you DO NOT need ethernet connection. You can stream wireless via WiFi. For the Vault 2i, you DO need an ethernet connection.

Actual owners, feel free to correct me if I am wrong.......