WiFi streaming — streamer vs. through iPad


I’m currently streaming Qobuz in my HeadFi rig to my DAC via my iPad via an upgraded dongle and USB cable and was pretty happy til I hooked up my CD transport and realized it sounds much better than than streaming.  After speaking with some folks here I’ve since realized I need to get a dedicated streamer hardwired to my router to up my streaming performance, but I’ve got a couple situations where going hardwired won’t be possible and will be forced to use WiFi.  My question is, if I’m using WiFi would there still be a sonic benefit to using a streamer (I’m planning on getting an iFi Zen Stream BTW) versus going wired through my iPad or will using WiFi completely nullify any sonic advantages the streamer brings?  Thanks for any thoughts/advice. 

soix

@classdstreamer Thanks for all the good info!  I noticed Qobuz wasn’t mentioned on the iFi Zen Stream page and was planning on asking about that.  That’s a big problem for me because I’m not going to listen to dumbed-down audio through Air Play and a don’t like Tidal and their silly MQA stuff either.  I’m amazed iFi is ignoring such a popular app like Qobuz — any idea why they don’t support it yet or if they have plans to incorporate it relatively soon?  And thanks for the info on Mesh and extenders.  I’m new to these products so can you explain why Mesh is better than an extender.  Thanks again. 

@soix

From all I have read, iFi is working on a connect feature like they offer with Tidal.

They are not ignoring it, but the development has to be a two way street it seems. Hopefully soon.

As I use Tidal, not an issue for me (and use the lower tier membership without MQA). But, until then, there is a workaround, an app called MConnect, that allow Qobuz to play directly through the Zen Stream. Downside is you have to use their (MConnect) interface. Roon is the other alternative, but personally, I’m not making that investment yet.

The Zen is a great streamer, not sure you are going to find better for the money. It’s streaming quality is constantly compared to more expensive streaming units.

I don't believe Qobuz is available with the IZen unless you use roon.  Others with more knowledge than I may say differently. 

@marco1

I just explained how it can be used without Roon.

Agin, per an iFi rep, they are working on it. A rep who also acknowledged the MConnect app is indeed a workaround to use Qobuz directly through the Zen Stream until they get it sorted out. Or, as stated, use Roon, with the Zen Stream as an end point.

@bkeske Thanks a lot — that’s great info and a huge relief because I’m pretty set on the Zen Stream and not sure what I would’ve done if Qobuz didn’t work.  I’ve emailed iFi and will forward any new info re: Qobuz in case anyone else might be interested.