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  3. 153801-4660

Moving up from a Node 2i

I want to keep it between 1K and 1500.00, closer to a grand if at all possible. I don't care about onboard DACs, since I have a keen liking for mine. What is out there for a streamer, new or used, that will sound better than the Node when outputting to an external DAC? I like the functionality of the Node, don't want something with a sketchy user interface. But honestly, I think my old Allo Digione (Raspberry Pi) might have sounded a little more organic and fleshed out than the Node.

What say ye, Audiogon?

Oz



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ianrmack
227 posts
 
@ mattshere  that’s  nice. But also to be expected and not surprising especially with your choice of DAC. Isn’t it awesome tho??!!

what we really need to hear and quantify , per the OP’s question, is what happens to overall SQ if you replace the Node 2 with a dedicated (DAC-less) streamer: Lumin U1 mini, Innous zen, project, etc.

still use your Schiit, but change out the node 2 or 2i.

what happens, why, and how much?


ozzy62's avatar
ozzy62 OP
2,830 posts
 
My Lumin U1 mini arrives tomorrow. The game is afoot........
bill_k
880 posts
 
@mattshere - Glad that the Schiit is providing you with such an upgrade from the Node2 itself. One thing you should keep in mind regarding playback of MQA files is that when using the Node's digital output you are still hearing MQA's first unfold (typically either 88.2 or 96kHz) being output to the DAC for decoding. That's generally believed to be the most significant portion of the MQA process and you're not losing it when using the Node's digital output to a non-MQA DAC like the Schiit. Enjoy!!!
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kingbarbuda
513 posts
 
I think all those concerned will like the Lumin U1 Mini. Excellent resolution. Excellent customization of DSD. I’ve converted mine to SBooster use and have placed EMI and microvibration absorber sheets easily. So it can be a fun project too. 
dtximages
350 posts
 
Any report?
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