2. digital
  3. 144301-74203

Need DAC/Streaming Advice

I currently own a Bryston BDP-2 digital player that I run through a Bryston DAC.  As far as playing high resolution files via a thumb drive or other external drive, the BDP-2 sounds great.  The streaming part leaves a lot to be desired.  I can stream Tidal but it is extremely slow and the IPad controller is pretty lousy.  I can listen to Sonos through the DAC into my main system but obviously there is no hi-Rez via Sonos. I would like to find a better solution and am willing to start over (I can move the Bryston components to my secondary system).  What I would like to find is a higher end streamer for my main system that would allow me to stream Tidal, Spotify and Deezer if possible while also playing digital files via thumb drive etc. I have no idea if that can be done in a one box solution or if I would need a separate streamer and DAC.  I would very much appreciate any and all thoughts.  Thanks in advance.
puppyt
mzkmxcv
558 posts
 
@lalitk

Please explain how it’s entry level in regards to performance. OP has an iPad, so no even need to use the app if you don’t wish to, use AirPlay.
puppyt OP
33 posts
 
I am probably looking for something better than entry level but given my experiences with the Bryston digital player I am a little gun shy about spending too much money. 
puppyt OP
33 posts
 
I just want it to work.
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
1,105 posts
 
@puppyt,

Unless you try, you won’t know. Most Aurender and Bluesound online retailers offers 30 days return policy. 
big_greg
315 posts
 
You can find a used BlueSound Node 2 for around $300, or a "re-certified" one from BlueSound for $400, or spend $500 on a new Node 2i.  It will do everything you want it to and more.

If you buy a used one and decide you don't like it, you're not going to be out too much money (if any) if you decide you don't like it and flip it.  If you buy a new one, BlueSound has a 30 day return policy.

Try it and decide for yourself.  

I'm running one through my Auralic Vega DAC in my main system and it sounds great.  The best bang for the buck component I think I've ever bought.  I have one in my bedroom and am using the internal DAC on that one. 

The Node 2 sounds quite good on its own, but will sound better when connected to a high quality DAC.

Before I actually listened to one, I was skeptical and also considered it an "entry level" piece because of the low price. 
More to discover