So I purchased a Bluesound Node X with the hope that it would improve my streaming experience and overall listening experience. It really hasn’t.
I use Amazon Music and other than some minor conveniences (like not interrupting music when a call comes in) I’m not sure it was worth the $750. The sound from the Laptop via USB sound fuller and just as detailed as the Node and it seems like its just another piece of equipment I don’t really need. Am I missing something?
I used a Media PC/Laptop wired to my system via USB for many years. I switched to a central “server” for my files and various DLNA/uPnP capable endpoints a few years back. The flexibility and convenience are the benefits IMO. I can pull up any of those devices on my phone, tablet or touchscreen laptop and play from various streaming services and/or my own library over the network. I can play the same track in all systems, different tracks in different systems, and mix sources in the same play queue.