Streamer recommendations for dummies.

There is however one thing I don't like with node2, streaming under Hegel H160 network interface I need about 47 on volume for max gain with my speakers (SF Concerto).
To match that volume on node2 you have to go up to about 76 on the volume. Same results under Coax, RCA and Toslink. 
Don't like having to set the Hegel at 76 volume to use the Node2.Ugh ....
Ben

Does changing the gain settings in the Node 2i make a difference ?

That's with the node2 at max output.Apparently the gain on the Hegel network interface (AirPlay) is way higher than the other digital and analog inputs.So now I have the opposite problem, yes iTunes users will not be able to crank the volume to 100% and blow out a speaker, but if any source other  than node2i connects the volume will be set to 75% (it changes the volume on all inputs if you change any 1 input).This machine is full of surprises....I'm going to mess with it a while and see if I justify the $500...After more testing I believe the Hegel DAC is better then Node2i.

After more testing I believe the Hegel DAC is better then Node2i.

That is not a surprise as I owned both the H300 and the H160 and found the DAC to be a lot better than my Vault.

Even though the 2i versions are supposed to be better DAC than previous it would have to be a major increase to best the Hegel DAC which are actually very good for an integrated amp.

Well, after toying a little more with the node2i it seems the audio gain when streaming from sources "other than" iPhone is really quite good. Streaming from Synology NAS, and online content has me locking the Hegel H160 at about 65% volume and running everything through BluOS app, that stuff works. Very happy with Hegel DAC and amount of gain.
Checked with my Hegel rep and verified running a steady 65% 24x7 on H160 is a non-issue so ....it seems the node2i is a keeper.All good.