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Music streamers

My question is About music streamers in general. My current setup is a Laptop connected to my integrated job amp through usb. I was wondering if I should replace my laptop with a dedicated streamer without a Dac cuz my int already had one. So purely speaking about the difference between a dedicated streamer and a laptop. Does a streamer have a tangible improvement than a laptop? Just on the audio quality is there a tangible improvement. If yes plz suggest me some good ones below 1000usd. I’m currently eyeing the lindenmann limetree bridge. Thank you 
parvatham
redwoodaudio
415 posts
 
Hifiberry Digi+  Raspberry Pi is cheaper than Allo, less than $200 for everything.  Sound is amazing via coax or optical. Built in WiFi sucks, but hardwired works great. I’m no programmer and was easily able to set it up.  Roon endpoint too!
anton99
57 posts
 
Another vote for Bluesound Node 2i. $450 on sale, connect to a better DAC, and there you are. Easy to use, small profile so easy to place, and it does everything it should. One of the smartest purchases I've made.
midareff1
182 posts
 
Do to a dearth of decent radio stations in Miami...  no Classical, Jazz no longer broadcasting on FM, no Blues.....  2 Classic Rock stations loaded with commercials....  I decided to try a streamer.  Went with the Cambridge CXN (V2) which delivers 97% or 98% of the sonics of my Sony XA5400 ES which was a Stereophile A+ rated component in 2014.  Going to try it with a Banchmark DAC 3b which should be delivered later today.
curlyhifi
159 posts
 
I purchased the Cambridge CXN (V2) to feed a secondary system based on a video I saw where it  was connected to a system $$$$$$$$$$.
Being curious I watched several reviews and for $1,100. why not.
Absolutely one of the best sounding if not the best sources in my systems. Using with Roon.
dougthebiker
224 posts
 
I’ve got about a $50k system but used to stream  an iPad into my Yggy DAC.  Going to a dedicated Innuos server/streamer was the biggest improvement I’ve heard in 25 years.  That’s not the point, it’s outside your budget.

For my tv room stereo I got an Orchard Pecan Pi streamer $500 including DAC.  It’s got better reviews by guys who only review digital than the Allo, which they used to love at the price.

 I tried it in my good system and no it’s not in the same class, but it’s VERY good for the price.  Reviews are on YouTube.
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