New streamer or dac?


So when I put my system together the idea was strictly vinyl,I eventually added a budget streamer thinking I’d use it for background music or puttering around the house when its not practical to listen to records. I became immediately consumed with it after subscribing to Tidal ,the idea of being able to listen to anything that pops into head is just fantastic,Im enjoying music like never before.Im ready to swap out the $600 unit for something a little more inline with the rest of the equipment in the system but am not sure if another option might be better. So my question is would it maybe be a better idea to buy a Dac and use the inexpensive steamer with it as a transport until I could afford to change it out also ? or would it make more sense to just buy a new streamer/ Dac unit ( I like the Aruender ) any thoughts on that would be appreciated,thanks in advance. 

 

bikeboy52

Definitely a Dac upgrade is the way to go for an immediate upgrade in SQ.

Thanks Sonic 79 snd sbayne ,Im going to take your advice,looking at dacs right now,lots to choose from.

@bikeboy52 What’s your budget?  I built an analog system then tried digital and enjoy the convenience.  I started with the Node 2i

And when I upgraded I looked at streamer/dac versus separates and I’ve seen significant improvement from the Node 2i to a Moon 280D with is $3k.

Folks argue they must be separate for upgrading and many audio manufacturers take pride in loyal customers and design product to be upgraded.

Depending on your analog set you will notice differences in the sound stage and dynamics in analog from digital.  Both can be enjoyable - enjoy the journey.