CD transport vs.streaming


Many have stated on this forum that the SQ from their CDs is superior to the sound from streaming sources. Others have said the opposite. Weirdly, in side by side identical tracks the sound from my Cyrus CDt sounds identical to my Cambridge CXN v2 streamer. I wonder if anyone else has this experience.

128x128rvpiano

“Why can’t we simply accept the coexistence of Redbook CD playback and digital streaming. Does every audio decision have to devolve into yet another pissing contest?
+1000 @charles1dad 

Exactly, latik - well said. I'm not going to waste previous hours of my life ripping my CDs and I'm quite happy to listen to new music on Qubuz - along with continuing to listen to vinyl.

Can someone explain to me how even in THEORY a ripped CD file can sound better than the CD itself (digital path, same DAC)? 

I have no problem accepting physical cd playback, fine with co-existing. The problem is those who claim streaming is only for convenience, can't be high resolution solution. Also, some have strong sense of anger towards it, claiming its destroying our attachment to artists and music, like somehow the physical possession creates attachment a file can't. Seems something like religious symbolism to me.

 

And yes, we need to add cd rips to the equation, it too is played over a network so can be considered streaming to some degree. So, I do have over 2500 cds stored away, they hold no meaning for me, just clutter. Vinyl jackets on the other hand are wonderful, relatively large format. Cd's and their containers also bad for the environment, lots of oil to make all that plastic.