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Need tips to better my sound


I’m not computer savvy and enjoy the convenience of streaming.
Right now my router goes to my smart TV by ethernet cable. I stream Spotify app on TV through an optical cable to my dac (old parasound zdac) to yamaha integrated(a-s500) to Revel tower speakers.
Would the best Improvement be to get a dedicated streamer such as a blue sound? I heard blue sound doesn’t work with Spotify but maybe I could get Tidal? I have music stored on an external hard drive, but my computer is slow, old and crappy. I enjoy streaming and seeing my music choices on my TV screen. Do I need a computer to utilize a dedicated streamer? I don’t know how to go about improving this budget (ghetto) set up that I’ve got. The only brick-and-mortar store around me either wants to sell me tons of crap  I can’t afford, or Best Buy tells me "sonos".
suggestions? directions? thanks.
128x128labguy
gdnrbob
4,452 posts
 
Wow, some rather cynical posts so far.

In any case, OP, I second (third) the Bluesound Node.

The onboard DAC is pretty good-especially for the price- and you can upgrade to a separate DAC should you find the need.
Given you current system, I think it will be a significant upgrade.
Bob
adam8179
69 posts
 
I fourth the Bluesound.  It works with Spotify and the DAC sounds pretty darn good.  If you haven't already, subscribe to Spotify Premium.  When you do, you can go into settings (from your computer or tablet) and set streaming to the highest quality they provide.  If you do nothing, it defaults to a lower quality
larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,009 posts
 
Get a Bluesound Node 2i and stream TIDAL.  This will allow you to listen to hi res and to also enjoy MQA.  I liked the Bluesound better played by itself rather than adding a DAC.
f1status1's avatar
f1status1
30 posts
 
Perhaps this might work for you.  https://hometheaterreview.com/marantz-nr1200-two-channel-slim-receiver-reviewed/
amg56's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
amg56
887 posts
 
@labguy 
My advice is to take all advice given and then research, research, research. You don’t want to waste dollars so know what you want, analyse the advice, research the products and purchase wisely.
Without taking away any of the advice given so far, don’t buy because “they” said so. Understand what it is you want and use this, and other forums to get the feel of advice given, then check it out on the manufacturer’s web sites. :)
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