2. digital
  3. 164165-147162

Do different streamers really sound different when using an external DAC

Maybe this has been posted before but it seems that often when a post is made where someone has gotten better sound it’s because it was the streamer with included DAC that was changed, not just the streamer. No doubt a better internal DAC,  better file resolution, a better music service, will make a difference.

But I just want to see comparison of streamer to streamer with the same DAC implementation. I am currently using a Bluesound Node2i outputting via Coax into a high quality tube DAC
So here’s the million dollar question.

What have been your experiences in upgrading streamers, keeping everything else the same ie, DAC, cables, output type (Coax)? No doubt better control apps and having a display will elevate your experience but how about just sound quality. Anyone?

Thanks


128x128alvinnir2
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 

@alvinnir2 Even an upgrade from Macmini to a modest Sonore microRendu w/LPS made a significant improvement in my pretty resolving system(Soundlabs, Krell amp, BAT preamp). Cheers,

Spencer

alvinnir2's avatar
alvinnir2 OP
118 posts
 

@sbank I found the same when I went from my Macbook to the Node 2i.

Well, I did get and installed today  the powerlink devices you suggested so I could hook up the Node 2i via ethernet and I'm glad I did. I does sound better, mostly with respect to greater dynamics.

In fact I played the first cut from the Chick Corea/Steve Gadd release " Chinese Butterfly" which I highly recommend if you like contemporary jazz.  "Chick's Chums" has some great drumming on it and when the drum intro kicks in  I nearly jumped out of my seat. Good Times!

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,379 posts
 

@alvinnir2 Great to hear that those powerline adapters worked out for you.

Steve Gadd's drumming on Aja title track is one of my all time favs. Thanks for the recommendation. Cheers,

Spencer

More to discover