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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
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,636 posts
 
I think that you left out the sweet spot 2.5
https://www.magnahifi.com/en/webshop/product/mano-ultra
or
https://www.minidsp.com/products/streaming-hd-series/shd-studio
Both in the $800-$1000 range.
I have the Studio, I like it better than my BluNode.
It uses Volumio which is easier to play my local tracks on SSD.
BluSound is a little easier with Qobuz.
Plus the Studio has DSP.  Maybe I'll get to it after Christmas.
ghjuvanni
92 posts
 
I would use Bluesound Node 2i (or Vault if you need CD ripper + storage). Excellent BluOS software will make a difference. Then stream to your DAC of choice...
instlouis's avatar
instlouis
91 posts
 
ianrmack

I'll preface by saying, I have a stellar system, a great collection of vinyl and CD's . I took a long time and investigation before jumping into the streamer "world".  I have had CD transports for years and still enjoy my current  PSA PWT transport. 

After ripping 70% of my CD's , I went to AXPONA this past year and noted that most of the rooms with streamers that I enjoyed were Aurender units . I even met the gentlemen from Aurender who gave me an excellent education on streaming and why I should buy Aurender ( of course ) .  Recently,  I bought a lightly used Aurender X100L .  Previously , I listened to my ripped CDs using J River through my laptop to my PSA DAC bridge which was pretty excellent, but the Aurender has taken everything to a whole new level of music appreciation. And I recently added Quobuz HR within the Aurender Conductor App and I may never leave the house again . 

If you're going to take the "jump" , I would recommend an Aurender product, followed by the Lumin U1 Mini forgoing the built in DACs and using your own .  

And in answer to your question , YES , a better streamer will provide you with better everything in my opinion IF you have a good system with which to appreciate what is being presented to you. 

Happy Listening ... 

Shad 
Post removed 
soix
9,811 posts
 
I’d add the Innuos Zen Mk.3 ($2600) to your list of candidates.  I like that it has a CD drive that let’s you rip your CDs right into its onboard memory — very easy and convenient.  Watch Darko’s video review of the unit where he compares to other streamers and also gives some explanations for why streamers make a difference.  I found it fairly interesting having not read much on this topic before.  FWIW. 
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