Powernode 2021 vs Powernode 2i for a budget hifi system
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Hello, I am very much a newbie regarding audio tech, but after I got inspired by a friend of mine with a beautiful Focal system, I decided to go ahead for something more budget oriented.
After a bit of research I ordered the Elac Debut 2.0 B6.2 speakers, which are yet to arrive. I was aiming for a budget of about a 1000 EUR, which has already been surpassed, so I combined it with the previous gen Powernode - the 2i. The price difference between the 2i and the Powernode 2021 is just about 120 EUR, which is not an awful lot.
Is the extra cash for the new Powernode worth it, considering the modest capabilities of the speakers I chose? Would there be an audible difference for a non-connoisseur, so to speak :))?
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If you are not really into audiophilia, there will likely be no audible sonic difference. The only obvious difference is the 20-watt difference in power, if you want to rock hard.
Having said that, 120 EUR is not a big difference. The new one should be easier to unload when the upgrading bug hits. As an inspired newbie, that bug may hit sooner rather than later.
If you are likely to upgrade, you may as well get an used 2 or 2i just to get your feet wet. You can unload it with minimal or no loss, versus a new one.
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Just to clarify:
There's the POWERNODE 2i, POWERNODE 2iv2, and POWERNODE 2021 (N330).
The difference between the 2i and 2iv2 would be that the 2iv2 features an HDMI ARC input and uses a differential DAC implementation for a cleaner sound. Between the 2iv2 and N330 is additional SNR improvements, more power, and a sleeker outer design.
Most people would be able to hear the difference between the 2i and 2iv2; a more trained ear would hear the difference between the 2iv2 and the N330 (at the same volume).
Typically the only way a previous gen POWERNODE is different from a later gen is by hardware. The software will support as many of the same features as possible given these hardware differences, so in terms of feature-longevity (such as music services) they are all equal.
That being said the extra kick from the N330 does make a difference, with your current speakers and if you decide to upgrade a bit later down the line. My completely opinionated advice for which I take no responsibility for if acted upon: search around more to see what deals you can get on a 2iv2. If you don't find anything better than your current deal and you're not strapped for money, invest it towards the N330.
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Thank you both for the explanations and suggestions.
I do in fact have the POWERNODE 2i with HDMI ARC input - so I suppose that this would be the 2iv2? There is no specific information on the box or in the website of the store where I got it.
So far I am quite happy with the combination with the ELAC Debut speakers - I have a month of a return window so I will look out for some deals on the N330.
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