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Need tips to better my sound


I’m not computer savvy and enjoy the convenience of streaming.
Right now my router goes to my smart TV by ethernet cable. I stream Spotify app on TV through an optical cable to my dac (old parasound zdac) to yamaha integrated(a-s500) to Revel tower speakers.
Would the best Improvement be to get a dedicated streamer such as a blue sound? I heard blue sound doesn’t work with Spotify but maybe I could get Tidal? I have music stored on an external hard drive, but my computer is slow, old and crappy. I enjoy streaming and seeing my music choices on my TV screen. Do I need a computer to utilize a dedicated streamer? I don’t know how to go about improving this budget (ghetto) set up that I’ve got. The only brick-and-mortar store around me either wants to sell me tons of crap  I can’t afford, or Best Buy tells me "sonos".
suggestions? directions? thanks.
128x128labguy
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@labguy  Given where you are with your components, I recommend holding off on millercarbon's recommendations (for now).

Start with a streamer/DAC combo that allows you to run direct via Ethernet or WiFi from the router.

Not knowing your budget, I can't offer suggestions.
labguy's avatar
labguy OP
82 posts
 
The blue sound node seems reasonably priced. Something like a Lumin would be pushing my budget. But I guess that all depends if I get a streamer with a DAC included that will better the parasound Z DAC, and if I need a computer to use a streamer. Mainly I just want to First address the weakest link in my system which I was guessing is using the smart TV's spotify app to stream. But maybe not? I'm pretty clueless. Thanks. 
ianrmack
227 posts
 
Here's the best tip I have ever heard when someone asks how to get better sound from their system:

GET YOUR EARS CLEANED!!!

Hahahaha...;-)
djones51
4,947 posts
 
The blue sound Node2i does support spotify if that’s what you want to use I use Tidal. You don't  need to use a computer with it and you can player your ripped music as long as it's  shared on your network. There are more than a dozen different streaming services on BluOS as well as internet radio.
soix
9,585 posts
 
I think your amp and speakers are pretty solid, so I highly suggest getting a Bluesound Node2i and get a Qobuz subscription that’s on special right now for $15/month and is a much better deal than hi-res Tidal IMO. The Node will solve several of your issues as you can ditch the computer while still being able to play your stored music, and the DAC in the Node is pretty decent and may well be an upgrade from your Zdac. Between significantly upgrading your source material, getting rid of the noisy computer, and quite possibly getting a better DAC you should realize a rather significant jump in sound quality and overall enjoyment I’d think. Hope this helps, and best of luck.
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