Streamer, no DAC please?


Sorry if this topic has been beaten to a pulp...I recently upgraded the digital side of my rig, Denafrips, Pontus 15 with a Project CD Box RS2T transport...

Now I have the itch to try streaming. It pains me to invest in a high end streamer and once again pay for a DAC.

Is it possible to find a quality steamer without a DAC? Any direction is appreciated, FYI, I consider myself a luddite.

larseand

I’d get the WiimPro for around $100.  The app is great.  If streaming is fun and if you feel the need for something more pricey to squeeze out that missing 2% of SQ then go for it

Thanks to all. Although I would love to find a used Lumin U2 or Aurender N200, it's too much money for an experiment in streaming.

I don't see how I can go wrong with the Wiim Pro. I think I'll give it a go.

Apologies if I offended anyone with my last post... I'll declare my budget in future original posts.

Andrew

@larseand

sorry.  I deleted my post recommending a more expensive streamer than what you were looking for.  I am very sorry.  

I’d cast a vote for the PS Audio Airlens.  
I’ve seen them used on TMR for about $1,600, new they are $2,000. 
I own one now and it’s quite nice. Very good support from PS Audio too. 
 

@larseand 

Your question asks about music streamers but another follow up question is music streaming subscription services and Applications.

Streaming services offer instant access to millions of songs without the need for physical media or extensive storage space. Streaming platforms offer various subscription plans, including free ad-supported options, making music more affordable than purchasing individual albums or tracks.

For example, I started with Tidal and eventually switched to QoBuz. You search for an album and if you like it, make it a favorite for future listeing. Qobuz offers many curated playlists across various genres, including Jazz, Classical, Pop/Rock, and more. You can also create your playlist for your listening. 

I use Audirvana Studio and like it because it enhances audio quality on streamers by optimizing the operating system for audio playback and disabling non-essential services. It functions as a third-party player, scanning local music libraries and integrating streaming services like Tidal and Qobuz. Audirvana offers both subscription and lifetime license models. 

Other options are Roon, AURENDER Conductor App, etc. For example, Aurender Streamers include the Aurender Conductor App. So, in addition to the hardware choice, I suggest you spend some time investigating streaming services and applications to run on the hardware of your choice. I hope this helps.