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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


128x128bomd

Showing 6 responses by bomd

bomd's avatar
bomd OP
46 posts
 
All great advice, tips, and info!!!  Thanks everyone!

So sounds like it's not worth holding out for an Aries Mini.  I see one come up maybe once a month or so (searching via eBay or Hifishark), but it does seem like owners are not letting those go.

Appreciate the tips on the Bluesound Node 2 as well as it's differences to the Node 2i.  And also sounds like I'll be in good shape with an Oppo BDP-103 purchase.

Appreciate the tip on the CA CXN refurbished model.  Will look at those too.

Cheers!!
bomd's avatar
bomd OP
46 posts
 
It's also worth noting that I plan on using the internal DAC of whichever streamer/component I end up with.
bomd's avatar
bomd OP
46 posts
 
@cast

Thanks for replying!  This is good info.  I've read that the Node 2i has a step up in SQ compared to the previous Node 2.  I'm really interested in the Aries Mini, but man, it is hard to come by one for sale. 
bomd's avatar
bomd OP
46 posts
 
@rhljazz 

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

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

bomd's avatar
bomd OP
46 posts
 
@tketcham 

I think this was the exact response I was hoping to get.  I've learned that if I go with an Oppo the 105 is the way to go.  But I hear what you're saying in regard to a used mechanical device, and whether software for this player will continue to be supported or not.

The Bluesound Node 2i is where I'm leaning now.
bomd's avatar
bomd OP
46 posts
 
I recently purchased a Bluesounds Node 2i.  I have it connected via WiFi and am using Audioquest NRG-2 C7 power cable, and Audioquest Sidewinder Interconnects.

Very happy with the performance and user interface.  This is an incredible product for $500.  No complaints so far!!
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