Sound quality and futureproofing MDC BluOS 2i vs. Node n130 or Node 2i

Answered
Anders

Hi,

I've been testing out a Node N130 with the my NAD c388 amp and I've experienced that the sound quality varies a lot using different digital cables (coaxial and optical) in various price ranges. With the priciest and best quality cables at hand I've experienced a quite audible difference between using the coaxial or optical output from the N130 to the c388. I've not been fully satisfied with the sound quality from the coaxial or optical output from the N130 as I don't like the fact that the sound is coloured by the cable or the digital outputs. Therefore I've been thinking of purchasing a MDC 2i module for the amp instead to rule out the cables being the ones ruining my sound experience.

My question is: Is there an audible difference between a Node 2i, Node n130 and a MDC BluOS 2i module when using it with a c388 and keeping in mind that the node 2i or node n130 would be used with the digital outputs and not the analog outputs? And is it safer (futurewise) to buy a Node N130 rather than a MDC BluOS 2i or Node 2i?

Thank you in advance for your reply.

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  • Official comment
    Mark T.
    Sr. Support Crew Member

    Hi Anders,

    You are right, cables can change the sound. In terms of difference, there is a subtle difference between generations and MDC but it is highly subjective. You can choose the MDC route to minimize devices or clutter, but FUTUREPROOF-wise, the Node would be better and will give you more flexibility.

    Thanks for #LivingHiFi

  • Anders

    Does this mean that the MDC 2i module hardware will get too slow to keep up or be unsupported in terms of updates or OS any time in the near future?

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