The DAC is the roadblock - not the transport/streamer. Want better sound? Get a better DAC! Lots of choices available! I say this because transports and streamers have been essentially bit-perfect for quite awhile. Whether the source is hard drive, SSD or optical CD what comes out in bits is what went in. Digital data storage is not a problem! Unlike analog digital allows unlimited copies to be made, each identical and not dependent upon the storage material.
Weakest digital link: DAC - Streamer - Server?
I am curious WHICH of the three is MOST important in digital playback? DAC, Streamer, or Server? I assume DAC is #1, but what about server/streamer?
Specifically, I have a Synology NAS which I can host ALL my music on, then using a good streamer play off it via Roon/Upnp, PLUS my streaming services. Does it make sense to use a SEPARATE server JUST for my music?
Like is there going to be MUCH difference between these setups?!
1. NAS (music server) --> Good Streamer (ethernet, Roon) --> DAC
2. Dedicated Music Server --> Same streamer (ethernet, Roon) --> DAC
3. Dedicated Music Server with streamer (digital out) --> DAC
I understand for SURE, if one connects a NAS USB out to streamer/DAC it will sound WORSE than dedicated music server with low noise components, BUT if I am sending the music over ethernet to a good streamer, WHY would a music server make ANY difference? The streamer would essentially take the same files off my NAS, as if would from Tidal and play in the same fashion... no?!
WHAT am I missing?!
PS. I can also upgrade the NAS with linear PSU to lower noise, but once again, sending audio through ethernet shouldn't matter.
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Within a DAC the output stage is the final arbiter of sound quality. The chip type and its implementation is secondary. Careful design choices of chips and output devices (transistors, ICs, tubes) can allow production of excellent sounding DACs at low cost! One need not spend four-figures to buy an excellent DAC. |
@alexb76 Basically Alex the guys that use dedicated streamers have "old school" beliefs that the source is the most important thing to sound quality. However more recently people believe that DACs are the most important. I used computer audio for years and I'm talking about ripped CDs on my storage not streaming and even using a dedicated computer with specialist software and Windows Server I could never get anywhere near what I get with a dedicated streamer. I know that bits aren't bits and digital cables make a difference. To sum up however because Cindy will be along shortly to tell everyone what's what. If you get a decent DAC first and a Server/Streamer later you'll save money in the short term. But if you want the best get a DAC and Server/Streamer but audition them first and don't be afraid to take your files along to compare. |
If you can minimize noise generated by Synology (LPS is recommended) and your router, you can get a very high quality playback of your local files and streaming from Qobuz/Tidal. I would recommend installing a Ethernet switch w/LPS as a central data point to route all the incoming data before getting to your choice of server or streamer. There are few options like English 8S. For a high quality streaming, dedicated audio server or streamer is equally important so pick a device that is designed for audio. Check out Small Green Computer, they have a good selection of music players or servers (which will eliminate the need for a NAS). As far as DAC, you got so many choices. I would steer clear of cheap junk being sold on Amazon and pick up a nice R2R DAC. Look into Denafrips, like Pontus II. If you prefer a tube DAC, look into MHDT DAC’s sold by Linear Tube Audio. And lastly, pick decent LAN cables (yes they matter). Check out Supra CAT 8 LAN cables. They are being sold by eBay seller ‘zendada’. Whatever you do, do not get caught up in the endless debate of what’s more important. Everything matters! |
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