2. amps-preamps
  3. 154061-139155

Which combination of components (Streamer, DAC, Preamp, Amp, etc.) are most future-proof?

Hi all,

I’m in the process of gently upgrading my older, mid-fi system. I’ve started with speakers (Salk WOW1’s, REL 328 sub). I recognize that the amplification, cables, room, and source all need investment.

I’m focusing first on source(s) and how to serve them up. While I have a decent CD collection, mostly I’ve been streaming my music from ripped MP3 files and Spotify. I no longer have a working CD player. I know that higher resolution sources (lossless files or high quality streaming) is important. Re-ripping my collection may become a project.

So, here’s my question — a lot of reading has shown me a dizzying range of ways to go. Music servers/streamers, DAC, preamp, amp are available in many combinations. I’d like quality but am not inclined to spend tens of thousands of dollars; I resist going the "separates" route for *every* piece. So which combinations make the most sense? A streamer/DAC? A preamp/DAC? An integrated amp/DAC? Something else?

In addition to resisting separates, I’d like to invest in good components which won’t quickly be outdated. So, for example, if DAC’s are likely to evolve quickly, then I’d like my integrated amp to not be weighed down by a DAC which would too quickly become a vestigial organ inside it.

To reiterate the question: What combination components would best help out with some portion of the sequence of serving--converting--amplifying--digital sources materials while avoiding too-rapid obsolescence?

Thanks for entertaining the question. Again, I’ve read a lot, but it’s not made my path clear. (Or maybe I just get a PS Sprout and call it a day?)

Dave
128x128hilde45
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
The height of instability is in the streamer software, and integration with music services.... The truth is that music services come and go.

Software is stable and mature. Most systems are run off of Linux or Windows which are not going anywhere. The next layer (Media Server and Output software) are also well established and supported. 
erik_squires
16,058 posts
 
Software is stable and mature.

Not possible for reasons outlined above.

I don’t mean it’s bug free, hopefully most of it is reliable. What I mean is that it is the services we want to connect to that are constantly changing. As hardware ages, and services change, disappear, etc. the hardware may become literally unusable except as a CD storage device. iTunes is gone, Tidal almost went under last year.

Preamps and amps, we’re still using the same standards for them all the way back to the 1970’s. Speakers, same. Even the longevity of a DAC has been established. You could pick up the first DCS ring DAC and play music today.

And being in the audiophile market is a really risky business for anyone.

To use the BluRay player / streamer as an analog, Oppo is gone, I thought they’d be here forever. I think Netflix still works on Oppo, but forget about any new services. There’s no Sling, no Disney+.  On the other hand, my Roku was $99 and if the company goes under, I'm off to the next thing.


So, my point is, again, that the streamer is the thing that is most likely to be aged out of your system. Even if you buy from a company that has been around forever (naim) there’s no guarantee when they will end of life your current streamer.


Best,

E
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
It's near impossible to reason people out of their fears and ignorance, so I won't. : )


kren0006
1,859 posts
 
Correct, Erik. 

Dave, OP’s original question is about future-proof - heck it’s right in the title. My and erik’s point is that speakers and amps/pre’s are much more settled that way, especially vs streamers.


OP could take Dave’s advice about going big on the source at expense of the others(at least that’s how I read his initial post disagreeing with my recommendation), but at least as to streamer/dac it comes with much more risk. Both that such source will soon be eclipsed by superior tech in relatively rapidly advancing space (compared to Audio in general), or because of nonsupport considerations as Erik mentions
erik_squires
16,058 posts
 
Right. OP’s original question is about future-proof - heck it’s right in the title. My and erik’s point is that speakers and amps/pre’s are much more settled that way, especially vs streamers.


Right. I’m not arguing "don’t buy a great streamer." I’m simply answering the question about lifespan.

I do argue though that this makes the top end streamers a lot less desirable in my mind than $2k level streamers. I could see myself selling my DAC and integrated in 10 years. A streamer? Nah. It will be a doorstop.

Best,


E

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