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CD Alternative

At present I have around 1200 CD's which are played on a Cal Audio/Benchmark DAC 1.  I am looking for some guidance regarding the potential use of high res streaming or ripping and having a server.  I have no idea which option/equipment to pursue or if there is another option to consider.  This all started when I recently went to audition speakers with a few CD's but discovered this was the old fashioned way and instead used a "Roon Streamer" I think.   Secondly the Cal Audio is about 25+ years old and the DAC 1 is 16 yrs old.  Thanks in advance for your responses as I am absolutely confused with the digital path to take. 
xagwell
mahler123
3,252 posts
 
I am realizing that I sound contradictory  when I said something isn't necessarily better because it is newer, and then call the OPs equipment ancient.  I meant to say that streaming, the newer technology, is not necessarily better than CD Replay.
jl35
3,966 posts
 
CD sounds great, audition some newer CD players in your price range before deciding on streaming or ripping...
jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 
The streaming listener has no way of knowing the provenance of a particular recording. Many from the streaming services have been remastered - altered - from the originals. More compression, boosted bass ... if this doesn't bother you, then go ahead and stream away! 
jasonbourne52's avatar
jasonbourne52
2,863 posts
 
I don't think that older CD players and DACs are inferior and take second place to the new stuff! The proliferation of ever more expensive DACs and transports appears to be driven by clever marketing to appeal to the "golden ears" crowd to increase profits.
xagwell OP
132 posts
 
I just read that the latest version of my original Benchmark DAC 1 is a A+ recommended component.  While appreciating the limitation of such "recommended component" lists a newer DAC could be an option.  OTOH there is no way I am spending time ripping 1200+ CD's.  At present I couldn't store the files anyway which brings me to the idea of a media server if I'm using the term correctly.  
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