My Baby Steps To Streaming/Tidal and Bluesound Node 2i

[James Edward]

I have been using Tidal for several months now. Until 2 days ago, I was simply using Bluetooth from my iPad, into an Audioengine Bluetooth receiver, then into my integrated amp.
I just hooked up a Bluesound Node 2i, and am now using it to stream my music via Tidal. Now the paradox- I expected the sound quality to be greatly improved, and the ergonomic/ glitch factor to be annoying at best.
However... The sound is improved a bit- more detail, not night and day, but the dropouts and pauses for no apparent reason have disappeared completely.
So for me, the Bluesound piece is a winner.
Be aware I am only using the basic Tidal service; the hi-res version may be a different animal altogether.
If anyone is aware of any tweaks to my setup to improve sound quality, I’m all ears, pun intended.

[Nick B]

Are you still subscribing to Tidal Basic? Is Basic the same as what they call Premium for $9.99 a month? Still liking that Bluesound Node 2i?

[James Edward]

Yes, yes, and yes. I continue to be surprised at how good the Tidal stream sounds via the Bluesound. As I alluded to in my original post, I have experienced zero glitches, dropouts, or other pains with this setup.
It is easily the best 9.99 a month I spend in any kind of value sense...
I honestly thought I'd try it for a while and cancel due to either poor sound, lack of interest, etc. That never happened.
I've also found another great use for the service- I do a lot of cooking, and if I'm cooking Italian, on goes Italian music- tacos, Mexican music, etc., etc.
I read a fair amount of books, and playing background music curated for reading is another plus.
The list goes on...
Love the service.

[Nick B]

Thanks for the update. Interesting, fun idea to combine ethnic cooking with ethnic music