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Bluesound Node 2i & Ayre Codex - How would this work?

I just picked up an Ayre Codex and I’m looking for a streamer - basically there are 3 options, a Sonore product like the micro/ultraRendu, a Bluesound Node 2i, or a Innuos Zen Mini.

I am leaning toward the BSN2i in terms of flexibility and ease of use, and the cost is a big plus vs the other options. However the BSN2i only has coax or optical out, and the Codex only has USB or optical in.

So basically this is only going to work via toslink, which I believe would have some limitations. For one, are there limitations on the sampling and bit rate that can be transferred via optical? Is the Codex a good enough DAC that it can mitigate jitter from the BSN2i optical out?

Would a Sonore product be better (though pricier)? I also really like the Zen Mini option but I think it’s really overkill. I know it is an amazing streamer because I already own a Zen MKIII hooked up to my main system. But that also makes all the other functions of the Mini redundant (no need for a HD, CD ripper, etc). Plus with the LPS option on the Mini, I could literally buy 4 Bluesounds or 2 ultraRendus.

I should add that the main purpose of the Codex and streamer will be to go into my Quad PA-One headphone amp. 
128x128jsqt

Showing 3 responses by mr_m

mr_m
1,087 posts
 
Of which the Codex is not only a great Dac, but is a headphone amp too.:-)
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
I am using a Node2 with Ayre CODEX with Wireworld Super Nova 7 optical interconnect, and the sound is glorious! I'm not a huge supporter of balanced outputs, but in the case of the Codex, it took the SQ to another level. Excellent pairing, IMO.
mr_m
1,087 posts
 
jsqt,

If you have a chance, try the Node2-Codex pairing with an optical, and judge for yourself. As usual, Audiotroy has a agenda, so just beware.

If you like the pairing, fine, if not, that's ok too. All I ask is try it and see what you think.
Cheers,
Tim
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