Will adding an external DAC to my setup improve SQ significantly?


Hello everyone,
My current setup is as follows:
  • Buchardt S300 MK2 stand mount speakers
  • Peachtree Audio Nova 125 integrated amp
  • Bluesound Node 2i streamer
  • OPPO BDP93 Universal player
  • ProJect Debut Carbon Esprit DC w/Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge 
  • Bluejeans cables and interconnects throughout

The context:

Nowadays, my music comes 70% from SPOTIFY/QOBUZ/TIDAL streaming to the Bluesound Node 2i, with the rest coming from local files stored in my laptop, as well as older vinyls and CDs.

I listen mostly to all styles of Jazz, Classical, World Music, some Classic Rock, and even some easy listening tunes when the mood strikes me, all of this at reasonable volumes, but sometimes cranking it up some...

My listening room is our untreated living/dining room ( 550 square feet).

Now for my question:

While I very much enjoy the sound I'm getting for this modest but pretty good sounding system, I have read here and there that adding an external DAC can potentially improve on the overall SQ, as opposed to sticking to the Bluesound's internal DAC...

Before I go and spend hard earned money on what may not be a significant/worthwhile improvement, I wanted to ask those of you with much more experience than I your opinions. Of course, Bluesound owners are especially invited to chime in.

I really love the Buchardt speakers and would love to get the very best out of them.

Thanks very much for your input, experiences and of course, eventual advice as to what external DAC would fit the bill.

My budget is limited to around $1000, as it wouldn't make sense to spend more on a DAC in a system this modest, or am I wrong?

I have beend advised to checkout the upcoming SMSL M500. Any of you guy know much about these chinese machines (Topping/ SMSL/ Denafrips...). They appear to be very competitive price and specs wise, but I'm too much of a newbie to tell the difference, especially as it applies to my specific gear and circumstances.

Regards to all!

jlr261
128x128Ag insider logo xs@2xjlr261

Showing 2 responses by everest_audio

Have you tried using the digital out of the Node 2i to the Peachtree to see what it sounds like using the DAC in the Nova 125? I don't know if it will be better or worse than the DAC in the Bluesound, but it may be a sound you prefer.
jlr261, to answer your question, you shouldn't hear any sound quality difference going from wifi to Ethernet on your Bluesound.