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

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. 

@soix

You are welcome. It is ultimately only in iFi’s best interest to get a connect feature with Qobuz, as they already have with Tidal.

I have no reason to doubt they are working on it and will get this sorted out. But again, probably have to have the help/collaboration directly with Qobuz to incorporate within the Qobuz’s app. Something Tidal obviously did.

No doubt iFi and Tidal were working on the integration well before the Zen Stream was released, as it is so much incorporated into the actual unit.

@ bkeske. Posted before I saw your comments.  RU actually using with Qobuz and does ot work?