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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
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biketony
93 posts
 
I’m in the camp of it all matters. But my digital front end is
36% streamer
64% DAC 
Innuos zenith mkiii 
Aqua La Scala mk2 optologic.

But it’s what worked for me. Tried more than a few DACs and streamers. But that’s part of the fun of it for me. Looking and listening. I’m lucky to have a audio salon in my area that will let me take home just about any of the items they carry for weeks at a time to audition in my home. 
Just one more reason to support the local audio stores. 
BTW... I used the word salon instead of store. Kinda makes me feel like I’m “all that” using words like that......lol
david_ten OP
5,480 posts
 
@thyname  I have the i7 SGC server. I need the extra horsepower.

Regarding the Zenith Mk3 unit, it was only in my system for a few hours. At that time, I found it to be a toss up between my front end and the Innous...power cables/LPSs were a factor. I've made adjustments to the power side of my front end...and it is now performing above where it was when the comparison was made. Would the Mk3 + Phoenix surpass it, I cannot say, but I believe what I have vs that combo will be close. Which points to the Statement as the next step, should I go with Innuos.
david_ten OP
5,480 posts
 
I’m in the camp of it all matters. But my digital front end is 36% streamer : 64% DAC

Thanks @biketony

thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 
Innuos Statement would definitely be end-game for me on the server / streamer front. I just wish I had that much cash. Maybe one day. Probably at the next Statement MK2 😉
veroguy
139 posts
 
I just did a major upgrade on my streamer - so I'm now about 50/50 in cost between DAC and streamer.  

FWIW:

  • DAC:  Mojo Mystique V3 - (single ended)
  • Digital front:  DCS Network Bridge + GigaFoilv4 ethernet/optical filter

If I add the cost of  the new LPS's for my cable modem and the new gigafoil, as well as ethernet cables, I'm more at 45/55.

I was talking with the owner of Mojo Audio about 6 months ago.  His opinion was that I was only getting maybe 30% of the sonic quality of my DAC with my current streamer (modded Sonos Connect).  He's a big proponent of source, power and cables in digital.   After this recent upgrade, I agree - just phenomenal improvements to my ears.

I just ordered a BlackCat Digit 75 coax.  Hoping for a final boost.

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