...take a look at the NAD C 658 instead:
https://nadelectronics.com/nad-announces-versatile-c-658-bluos-streaming-dac/

(Disclaimer: I've not personally auditioned the C 658 - this is simply an awareness post.)

Stereo8610 wrote:

Thanks for pointing out the c 658. I will try it at my local dealer. Curiously, I haven't found any review of this product yet, and the promised DIRAC is still not available.

I looked for a review as well before the last post because I thought it would've been helpful, but came up empty.

Crutchfield does have at least a detailed overview with a feature video:
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_745C658/NAD-C-658.html

Hope that helps a little.

...I generally stay away from proprietary tech such as MQA - especially since it is indeed lossy. I'm not fully sold that MQA is the way to go, especially when Qobuz has no plans to use it for its hi-res content.

The M51 and Node 2i are both solid, however, both of those components in tandem cannot exceed the C 658 on your implied use cases. The C 658 boasts ESS Sabre DAC (and convenience features) which warrants at least an audition. Crutchfield and AudioAdvisor each offer a generous return policy.

Even if there were reviews on the C 658, they didn't listen with your ears, on your equipment, and in your room.