Is using streaming services worthy of an audiophile?

One format always outperforms the other? Are you hot dogging me? 🌭

Nobody said that. Obviously a good example of either format - and one that is tweaked to perfection - can outperform a bad example or a stock out of the box example of the other format. Hel-loo! Each format has it’s advantages. Well, potential advantages. You don't hear too many CDs that actually have a dynamic range of 90 dB, do you? Let’s bring the argument back down to Earth.

+2 randyhat. I am not sure I understand the analog vs. digital debate. I guess I could if I had to pick one or the other... but I don’t. I mean I can purchase a turntable, tonearm, cartridge, needle and phono preamp AND I can aquire a DAC, streamer or computer to play digital music. I can listen to either format. I think the debate is silly because if I were thinking one is better than the other I would be listening to that format and if I changed my mind switch back. What is the problem????
BTW I have two audio systems, in one I have a tube amp, the other a solid state amp.... again not a problem only more options.

I’m not sure how many died and true audiophiles are interested in reducing their listening experience to merely another application on a computer.

Having said that, that's mostly what I end up doing these days. Even when I play a record, the ADC is running to get the music ready for loading to my music server. I guess I am a traitor. But I do spend more time than ever actually listening to and enjoying the music so at least I am a happy traitor.

I really like Tidal. I was actually quite dismayed when I A/B'd it with the vinyl rig I had at the time. I had to concede that the only big reason I wasn't selling my collection was for the physical aspect.