2. digital
  3. 153192-3293

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
soix
9,811 posts
 
This thread has confirmed to me that, yes, there are more expensive solutions out there yet not many can even articulate in 2 sentaces. WHY they would be superior to Bluesound assuming both solutions use the same DAC.

I believe I recommended in my prior post to read Darko’s review of the Innuos Zen Mk. 3 where he not only compares it directly to other streamers but also offers possible explanations as to what aspects of its design and build may contribute why the Zen sounds better.  If you haven’t read it you may find it somewhat interesting. 

ianrmack OP
227 posts
 

@soix2

Yes, I did see that...thanks.
But, perhaps I am mistaken...wasnt that solution @$1299 requiring an ethernet connection?

It looked interesting, but I also dont need a CD ripper and 1 TB of storage.

My existing music collection is all on my MacBook Pro.
Any music added in the future will come from streaming services.

I will never buy another CD the rest of my life.
In fact, I threw out about 500 of them in September.

WiFi appears to work for me.
What is the "value-add" in an ethernet connection?
highpeakrider
43 posts
 
I guess the value add is more bandwidth and less flaky connections if you have poor Wi-Fi, plus you can spend another fortune on audiophile routers and Ethernet cables or optical networks.
sonicjoy
146 posts
 
Hey if you are happy at 92% more power to ya! That just means you are more of a music lover than an equipment lover. As long as your wi-fi has the bandwidth you need (and most routers do) you should be fine.
ianrmack OP
227 posts
 
@ sonicjoy

I think you summed it up.

I'm writing this while listening to the same Grateful Dead album I have been listening to since the 70's and it has NEVER sounded better streaming "HR" via Qobuz to my Node 2i then to Chord Qutest.I hear instrument passages that I have never before noticed.

Plus, my internet and WiFi are VERY, VERY strong and as stable as Xfinity/Comcast can be in the 3rd largest city in NA.The router is in the same room as my stereo but on opposite ends of the room.

I'm happy at 92% and know that the path to the last few increments can be finicky and VERY expensive.

Cheers, all.
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