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Are "streamers" the new "transports"?

Have been following recent threads on streamers, DACs,etc. and wish to pose a question...

But, first, I would like to limit the discussion to just streamers and NOT DACs.
The analogy to which I seek clarity is the CD transport.

Assuming I have the same DAC (Chord Qutest) in use, will a "better" streamer measurably and audibly improve sound quality. If so, at what price/performance thresholds do you see?

Is it analogous to CD transports "5-10 years ago"?
Meaning, I could use:

1. Cheap Sony CDP ($200)
2. Oppo whatever model ($500)
3. Bel Canto transport ($1500)
4. Metronome or DCS ($5k+)

...and pass the signal to my DAC then to the amp. Now, as it relates to streaming...I could then...:

1. Use Apple TV or Chromecast then optical to DAC ($75)
2. Bluesound via Coax, Opt or USB to DAC ($500)
3. Lumin or Aurender ($2000)
4. Any crazy streamer that is $5K+

Sure, it's system dependent and only noticable if you have the ears and the gear for it.

But, my broader question: Outside if the "cost no object" gear ($5K+), is there a difference in the transmission of the digital signal that then creates SQ improvements via the SAME DAC?

If so, WHY?

Thanks.
ianrmack
erik_squires
16,229 posts
 
Yes, I have no idea why and cost is not really the issue.

I just went from a Raspberry Pi 3 to 4, and from a tinyCore Linux to Ubuntu, running the same software packages which are Squeezelite and LMS 7.9. The Pi 4 sounds much more open and transparent. Everything from the USB cable on forward is the same.


Is it the aluminum case? The OS? Lower noise in the USB output,  a quieter power supply, or the fanless operation?

Is it the additional compute and memory capability of the 4 makes it much more responsive and reduces jitter in the output? No idea.


However, this cost me < $150
erik_squires
16,229 posts
 
This kind of brings up something else.


DAC's are not equally indifferent to the quality of the input signal.

Unfortunately, audiophiles are often lured by "discerning" DAC's (and speakers). That is, they buy the DAC that lets them hear a difference in transports.

To me, the ideal DAC has such a great input stage that it is completely indifferent to any reasonably good source, and many have gone to extremes to do this. The Parasound CD player for instance would read tracks into memory and play from there instead of the CD to ensure the least amount of jitter in the output. Other RAM-centric players and streamers and DAC's have appeared with the same idea.


Of course, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. :)
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
In digital, its always something new. The King is dead. Long live the King. 
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