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Does the 'Buck' Start with the DAC?

Some members have expressed that the server / streaming front end is less important than the DAC.

I subscribe to the position that "Everything Matters"

As I consider front end choices, I'm trying to gauge if I should be leaning more heavily on a DAC versus a SOURCE (server / streamer).

Feedback and perspective from both camps, or any others, will be helpful. Thank you.

Please Note:  I'm not looking for validation of the position that "only the bits" matter... I accept that some believe this wholeheartedly... and that's okay by me. 
david_ten
rdoc
93 posts
 
I am using a Musica Pristina A Capella server connected via I2S HDMI to my Denafrips Terminator dac.  It is a superb combination and considerably superior to the PS Audio DS dac that I had previously.  My server has a 1 TB ssd storing my music.  I have not gotten on the streamer bandwagon.
david_ten OP
5,480 posts
 
@rdoc   Same question. Is the Musica Pristina both a Roon Core and Roon Endpoint/Renderer? Thanks.
worldwidewholesales
135 posts
 
Hi David,
Yes the Wavedream NET has both a Roon Core and Roon Endpoint/Renderer. It also has a very good CD player and can be ordered with a SSD. Sound wise the SSD is the best I have heard. Tidal and the built in CD player are also excellent but the SSD does edge out any other format we tested.

Cheers,
david_ten OP
5,480 posts
 
@worldwidewholesales   Do stored files off the SSD sound superior to a Roon stream of the same track? Thanks.
worldwidewholesales
135 posts
 
Hi,Sound wise the SSD is the best I have heard. Tidal and the built in CD player are also excellent but the SSD does edge out any other format we tested.

Roon Stream is also excellent and the Wavedream Net is the best steamer we have tested but the SSD has slightly more air. So if you are asking me which I prefer, it is the SSD but 80% of the time I am streaming my music.

Cheers,
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