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Choosing a Network Player/DAC

I finally have the audio setup I want for vinyl. I’d like to add digital to the system. I’m finding it very difficult to choose a product and any help would be appreciated. I have a McIntosh MA5100 paired with PSB Stratus Mini’s. The best way I can describe the sound I’m wanting to achieve is smooth reference..I favor a bit of brightness and separation is important to me...none of that information may be important when choosing a digital component but I thought I’d share. I have a media server, mainly for video, running PLEX. I have like 500gb of FLAC files on that hard drive. I also have a Tidal Account. I’m looking to add both to my audio system. My budget is around $700 but I could do more if that doesn’t cut it. So Network Player? DAC Attached to my Laptop/Server? Buy a mac mini and attach to DAC? Tubes (since this is a vintage system)? There’s so many ways to slice this up..I’m having a hard time. If anybody has experience and can recommend the merits of one over the others, it would helpful...also, this isn't necessary, but multi-room/zone would be nice.
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eli_tackla's avatar
eli_tackla OP
41 posts
 
@reubent Thank you for the response and help. My music is on a laptop with an external. I may be inheriting a sinology server but that isn't guaranteed. I've never messed around with raspberry pi but I definitely enjoy tinkering (especially cost effectively) so that might be a good option. I'll demo the jitterbug too...nothing wrong with staying under budget.

@4hannons Thanks for the help-I had no idea a usb isolater existed. I would've assumed any value from that product would be handled by the dac...but you learn something new every day. Does it provide that much of a benefit?
4hannons's avatar
4hannons
187 posts
 
You may not need the USB isolator. Lots of people report however the isolation improves overall sound. YMMV
eli_tackla's avatar
eli_tackla OP
41 posts
 
@4hannons Very interesting. I'd love to give it a try and find out.
sgoode's avatar
sgoode
6 posts
 
I have 3-5 terabytes on HDD most Hi-RES , and a vinyl playback system as well. I added a Cambridge Azur 851n  which works as streamer, DAC, and preamp. I use it as preamp for Jolida vacuum tube amp in bypass mode. The sound is amazing. Way over 700 dollar budget at 1799.00 however would solve all your issues.
gareneau
110 posts
 
Tom,

I'm very interested to hear your impressions of the Soekris DAC.

Gary
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