2. digital
  3. 155582-20190

Basic Digital questions

For a short time I had a computer running JRiver through a little iFi DAC and accumulated digital files of various types. Not long after I got everything working the computer crashed and I have not replaced it. I now want to start again and get another computer, mainly dedicated to my audio system, but used for work when I need it. I also want to stream, as it could possibly be the only way to hear some music in the future. Furthermore, want to be "done" as soon as I can in this process, or at least as "done" as one can with digital audio. I thought I would ask a few questions before I start spending money and would appreciate suggestions any of you might have.  

If I have a laptop (PC, fanless) that has Wifi, Bluetooth, etc., would there be any point in having a DAC with those features? I imagine that if I want to use my phone I might need a DAC with Wifi. I don't need a DAC with a line-level or phono preamp.

 

I have been told that signals are best through Ethernet, not Wi-Fi. Have people found this to be true?

 

If I watch a movie through Netflix or Amazon (or, ahem, a disc) will I be able to run the digital information from the device to the DAC? I do not have an actual TV and do not use cable.


What are people's experiences with and preferences for Tidal, Qobuz, Roon, etc.? I know almost nothing about streaming.
john_r_palmer
phcollie's avatar
phcollie
342 posts
 
OP,
I have a very nice stand alone DAC and I use my laptop to stream Qobuz using the software "Audirvana". At some point I will upgrade to a higher end Transport/Streamer but with a quiet SSD drive Laptop and only $75 for the Audirvana package I’m fine right now using USB to my DAC. I tested the software for free for 30 days and the sound was a big improvement over wifi streaming to my endpoint. (Dstream). Others may disagree but I think a nice DAC with a quality analogue stage is a worthy investment. Qobuz and Audirvana work well together.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,585 posts
 
john r Palmer
Your questions

1 No I think the only DACs you should consider do NOT have BT or WiFi or other crap "features."

2 Ethernet better than WiFi.
Unless you enjoy rebooting often.

3 Device dependent.
No answer available to a non question.

4 Qobuz is the best value in high SQ. Roon is only a player enhancement (interface) @ $20/month with frequent (sometimes bad) updates. MQA is an obsolete compression scheme designed to enrich the inventors.

I too keep my computers and HiFi on seperate floors. The first response from lalitk was best.
tuberist
951 posts
 
Fuzz, loved your comment #4, last sentence....my thoughts also.
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,433 posts
 
^^^^You got my 👍 on #4 as well! 
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