Crackles and pops through Bluesound Node and Bifrost 2

[Brian_Chacon]

Roon Core Machine

Qnap TVS-1282T3
Firmware: 4.5.4.2012
CPU: Intel i7-7700 CPU @ 3.600Hz
Memory: 32GB

Networking Gear & Setup Details

16 Port 1 Gb Switch
Cat 6 Ethernet cabling
Asus Wireless Router
Wired to Bluesound Node 2021

Connected Audio Devices

Bluesound Node 2021 connected over USB to Schiit Bifrost 2 DAC connected analog to Preamp

Number of Tracks in Library

3962

Description of Issue

When playing through Roon, I continually get random pops and clicks while listening to my library or Qobuz music. This does not happen when I play through the Bluesound application. Also, I was able to eliminate the crackles and pops by disconnecting the USB cable and swapping for digital RCA cable. No pops or crackles. My preference, though, is USB. It would seem Roon doesn’t work with the USB cable connected.

[AceRimmer (Smoke me a kipper, I'll be back for breakfast!)]

This is not the first time this has arisen here where Schiit gear via USB is concerned.
Why immediately assume it is a Roon problem?

[Brian_Chacon]

Because the issue only reveals itself when I play through Roon. When I use the Bluesound application, it’s flawless. I want to use Roon!!

[AceRimmer (Smoke me a kipper, I'll be back for breakfast!)]

My memory says this is a Blue sound known issue that they need to resolve.
Try a search on this forum for similar problems.
For example…

Static Noise/Pop with Bluesound Node's USB Output

Hello everyone, I’ve been having an issue with playback from my Bluesound Node with its USB output only when playing through Roon. There is an audible and sometimes rhythmic static pop that persists. I’ve tried absolutely everything to remedy this and it seems as though Roon is the issue. Typically I use the Coax output on the Node and its flawless. Ever since switching to USB (since the long anticipated update) from the Node to my Chord Qutest, I’ve had this problem. If I use Tidal connect, the…

[Brian_Chacon]

AceRimmer,

Thanks for the link. You were correct, I owe you an apology. It only happens with USB. When I switch over to a digital coax cable, the pops and the clicks disappear.