I purchased the node icon 2 weeks ago to test it out (Crutchfield gives me 60 day full return if i’m not happy) against my bluesound Vault 2i (which I’ve been using as my streamer.) It is noticeably better than the Vault. The Icon is a clearer with more depth and volume. I’m guessing that the main reason is the better DAC in the Icon. I use Qobuz as my streamer and I use mainly the Bluesound app for both the vault and the Icon. (The Qobuz app has the ability to stream directly to the Icon from its app so I’ll occasionally use that although I don not notice any difference in sound quality using either.)
The Icon is connected to my Krell Vanguard via Mogami Gold Studio 03 XLR cables. The Vault is connected via high quality RCA cables. I tested the Icon using my friend’s AudioQuest Yukon XLR cables but I couldn’t tell the difference in sound vs the Mogamis. Definitely not worth the $400 difference. I also tried a better power cord on the Icon but, again, I couldn’t hear a difference.
So, for an “inexpensive” audiophile streamer, I’ll be keeping the Icon (as well as my Vault since it has over 3,000 of my CDs) and switching between them as needed - two clicks is all it takes. For me, and my budget, it is definitely the way to go.
