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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
marco1's avatar
marco1
522 posts
 

I just went through something similar with the new Node and usb out.  It took them over 6 months to put out the update and now that they have people are still having problems including me.  I don't own the IZen yet so just trying to find out for sure before I buy one.

Thanks for the info

 

 

ghdprentice
7,027 posts
 

I highly recommend Qobuz. My audio dealer kept recommending it to me… finally I did it… I couldn’t quite figure out why I waited… they have around 500,000 high resolution albums vs around 50,000 for It’s nearest competitor. Don’t wait!

au_lait
347 posts
 

I find the library on Qobuz totally lacking. Tidal is a little better doesn't sound as good. Spotify actually has the best library but worst sound quality (not to mention they're a bloodsucking tech company that doesn't pay artists). I hope a new option comes along soon!

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
5,121 posts
 

I’m using eero mesh network and have no issues, it works great. 

soix OP
9,549 posts
 

Can someone explain why Mesh may sound better than an extender? Is it better at avoiding AC wire line noise?

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