2. digital
  3. 161740-509

Need really simple advice. How do I use the DAC side of my ARC Ref CD-9SE to stream music?

Ok, ... I just bought an ARC Ref CD-9SE redbook CD player, which has its own built-in DAC functionality.  The CD-9 DAC does not have DSD capability.  The ARC website describes the CD-9's capability in part as follow:

The Reference CD9SE incorporates four digital inputs: USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, and Toslink. All inputs handle 24 bit / 192k resolution. The Reference CD9SE retains the Philips PRO2R transport, still the best dedicated CD mechanism that is simply unsurpassed for compact disc playback. Benefitting from what we have learned in the development of the Reference DAC, the REF CD9 utilizes quad 24-bit DACs running in mono mode, with dual master oscillators; one for 44.1/88.2/176.4 sample rates, the other for 48/96/192kHz sample rates. Sample rate conversion is selectable for all inputs, allowing playback in native resolution or via upsampling, including compact disc and all inputs, including USB. Additionally, there is a selectable digital filter, with either fast or slow rolloff. 

I have no idea what any of the glarff quoted above means.  So, ... my simple minded understanding is that I need to sign up for a streaming service, ...  like Spotify, Tidal or something off Amazon.  The CD-9 is very close to an ethernet cable, so that is a good fact.  I assume that I will need a streamer like, Lumin or some other brand that I do not know a thing about, plus some interconnects and maybe a USB cord.  If I need a computer, ... I have a regular PC which has an Intel Core i7 CPU and a solid state hard drive.

So, ... in simple baby talk, how can I stream music from the internet into my CD-9 DAC and then into my ARC Ref 6SE linestage?  Please, please, ... keep it really simple.   

Thanks

bifwynne
mahler123
3,648 posts
 
Since the ARC handles usb 2.0, if you have a laptop you may want to start experimenting with that (my new MacAir has usb 3.0, but I believe that converters are easily found, and most computers out there probably use 2.0).  Computers usually have some sort of a hard drive (you may have to purchase a separate optical drive to burn CDs) and you can download the apps for streaming services such as Tidal or Spotify.  Dedicated Streamers are computers that have been made to look like audio components.  Many audiophiles remain happy with a bog standard pc even as they upgrade everything else.  The computer probably already is part of your network and that eliminates a big hassle, as getting a fancy streamer to play with your network is frequently a source of frustration 
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Thanks mahler123, .... so to get started, are you saying use my personal PC, which uses a Windows 10 operating system?  Then sign-up for Tidal or Spotify on my PC.  Then hook up my PC to one of the digital DAC inputs on my CD-9 using some type of I/C (which one??).  And then hook up one of the DAC outputs (presumably an XLR/BAL I/C) directly into my linestage pre. 

Is that a good way to get started? At least to get a taste of what streaming is all about.     
mahler123
3,648 posts
 
Does your PC output usb 2.0?  If so, use that , I believe you said the ARC had an input.  If not, you may need a converter.
windows computers frequently require a driver be downloaded to work with many DACs (your ARC is basically a DAC that spins CDs).
You may need to check with ARC on that.  Then yes, download the app for whatever streaming service you wish to try.
Down the road you can add programs that might enhance the audio quality, such as Audirvana Plus, but this should get you started
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hk_fan
554 posts
 
Using a PC or Mac Mini is a great way to start.  I used my Mac Mini connected to my Ayre QB-9 DAC with a USB cable (I use Audioquest Diamond since you asked), and played Tidal and Amazon HD streaming services.  I recently replaced it with a Lumin U1 Mini using the same USB cable.

There are tons of ways to stream to your DAC, but the PC is certainly a great way to start.  Streaming is a lot of fun and you will discover all sorts of new music.
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