Streamer/DAC combo or stand alone DAC with Node2?

@williewonka 
Just using some rather ordinary Chord Company 60 euro interconnects.  I'm hardwired into the ethernet cable.

I can't say I am a cable guy. Though I would not go so far as to say it's snake oil.  Thanks for the well thought out response.

@three_easy_payments 
I was looking at the Lumin D2, PS Audio Direct Stream JR/SR, but it seems you need the bridge to get Tidal to work and as I'm looking at the PS Audio Website from Europe I can't get prices.  I was thinking about calling them next week. I know the PS is above my enclosed budget.  I have also been looking at Schitt as a DAC for the Node.  They seem to be quite polarizing.

Using the Node2 I was impressed at how the Chord Qutest enhanced the sound stage, air, space and articulation.  I can't say I have an opinion on if it offered "analogue" style sound. I do know that when I changed to the Mac it's tubes added some magic to the equation and make for a more emotional listen.  Enhancing this might be interesting.  I definitely do not want to go more analytical.

And of course, six months after I purchase the Node 2 they come out with the 2i.  Thanks fellas. :)

@alchemyman

You could also continue to stream from your Node2 but use an upgraded DAC before connecting to your McIntosh. I know many are happy with the Mytek and Benchmark DACs in this same price space.  I know there are many other choices.  

@three_easy_payments 

Yes, this is a serious option.  Outside of the Chord and Mytek Dacs, there is not so much on offer here, or that I am familiar with.  Additionally, given that something like the Brooklyn DAC+ has a good ten features I would never use, I don't see the point in paying for them.  The Qutest is the only DAC I know of that really seems to be meant for conversion only from a preceding digital source like a transport or streamer.

Finally, I heard both the Brooklyn and Liberty bypassing the Node's DAC into an Octave V40 tube integrated and then into Q Acoustics concept 500 loud speakers.  The difference in sonic quality was negligible.  I was a bit surprised given Mytek's reputation.

I use an Ayre Codex for my Nodes.
They are redily available used and offer a significant upgrade to the Dac inside the Node.
Bob