Streaming Audio Questions


I've recently started back into the whole stereo game after many years. I am interested in getting into streaming audio to my stereo and have questions I hope to get help with. Is it better to get a streaming system like the Bluesound Node going into my system or is a decent quality DAC from my laptop the way to go? I first heard a Sonos player through some darn good gear at a stereo shop and was underwhelmed with the sound quality. I read on the internet about the hi- res playback of the Bluesound and wonder if that is a good stand alone unit or if a DAC from my laptop would be as good or better than the Bluesound? Are there other hi-res streamers on the market? Is Tidal the only hi- res streaming site? Anyways, a bunch of noob questions I'm sure but I really need some guidance. Opinions would be appreciated.
bhans
Personally I do not like the computer+dac solution and prefer a dedicated network player. The Bluesound are nice products with a very good app to control; you can find alternatives within the same price range as the Marantz NA6005 (but the app still suck IMHO) and Pioneer. As regarding the CD quality streaming services, beside Tidal you can find Deezer Elite and Qobuz (regional restrictions can limit the service).

In my main system I use a Wyred4Sound modified Sonos into a great DAC and in bedroom a standard Sonos into a Peachtree Dac itx and am very happy with both. A standard Sonos can be underwhelming, but I did the upgrades because they have a great user interface...

I would not discount Sonos so quickly.  If you add a Synchro-Mesh reclocker between Sonos and your DAC, this can make all the difference.  Sonos is a great platform for redbook playback.  However, it delivers the bits with some jitter.  Then you just need a good de-jittering device and a good S/DIF coax cable.  I can provide both of these.  IT even has a path to audio nirvana.  Add the Hynes-based linear supply "Dynamo" along with my Coax cable and you have world-class source.


Steve N.

Empirical Audio