2. digital
  3. 160137-108624

Streaming for beginner

I have a PS Audio front end-- DMP disc player and DirectSteam DAC. Very happy with the resolution and performance, especially from my redbook cd collection. For those familiar with the DSD, it is upgradable via a network bridge card to become a dedicated streamer. When I bought this DAC, I was looking ahead to an eventual migration to streaming.
I also have a Spotify account, that currently only serves me as a companion to my iPhone during walks and exercise.

My question: assume my goal is to stream for convenience, simplicity, and achieve audio quality that equals or surpasses that of redbook cd’s. I am not looking to purchase music or download it for storage. What am I missing? I also have a dedicated iPad that can serve as the interface to the DAC/Streamer. Spotify also claims that streaming in high resolution is available on my account. Do I need anything else? Am I oversimplifying this?

I am a beginner when it comes to streaming, so please answer in simple terms since I will not be familiar with a lot of the services and components mentioned elsewhere in these forums. In fact, confusing enough for me that it is forcing me to ask here.


mbiondo
grm
149 posts
 
Hi,
Sounds like with the optional network card you should be all set. For achieving the best SQ you may choose to try Qobuz or Tidal, remember Tidal utilizes MQA for hi-res playback, be sure your streamer supports it.

For myself, I tried Tidal for about 6 months and Qobuz for the same amount of time. In the end, I came back to Spotify's high quality streaming family plan. I found I much preferred Spotify's user interface, playlists and overall selection of music to be better for me.

Good luck!  
mbiondo OP
20 posts
 
grm, thanks. Yes, the Bridge II network card does support MQA. Sounds like what I need is this card and Tidal and I’m all set. Even I can manage this. Oh, I forgot to mention, I do already have WiFi. Haha.
jl35
4,022 posts
 
Tidal without MQA sounds much better than Spotify...Spotify is fun, but sound quality is poor...MQA is unnecessary...if you are going to use Spotify don't spend very much on your streamer...
grm
149 posts
 
mbiondo,
You mentioned you have WiFi, will you have the ability to connect via Ethernet? I have my streamer connected directly to my Gateway by way of a CAT7 cable, no issues at all. I have heard, but not experienced problems with WiFi and 24/192 going through the air?? Maybe someone with more knowledge regarding streaming connectivity and WiFi could chime in?

Thanks!
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,562 posts
 
If you're looking to achieve audio quality that equals or surpasses that of redbook cd’s then you must subscribe with Tidal or Qobuz.  As others have suggested, hardwired ethernet connection to your DSD should yield better SQ. 
More to discover