@twodogs112 'My question is what is the most reasonable streamer to try in my system to see if it works for me?'
'What is the best unit to try this out. Can’t break the bank, used is ok, actually preferred. Any outlet advice would be appreciated. '
'I’m working to eventually get to the level of most of you.'
Your Story of your History and return to using a HiFi System is a welcome one.
The requests you have made and as shown above is where I am at, I have kept an open mind on all options and have read through threads covering the Subject of Streaming and all the different directions a thread can head off in on this subject. There is a wide variety of views on the subject, I have been working out where it would be best for myself to commence with a Streaming Source to be used with the DAC I have for a CDT Source.
The Link is a thread from this forum, that might be worthwhile to read, it may fit in with the second and third of your above requests.
@mwinkc ' I'm an audiophile from the early 70's with several hundred LP's and only 100 CD's. Before I started streaming my listening was 85% vinyl 10% CD and 5% Bluetooth. Now, it's 75% streaming 5% CD and 20% vinyl. When I want the best music quality, it's vinyl. But the insane quantity of available music, great sound quality and ease of managing the several thousand tracks on albums and playlists make streaming an unbeatable choice, much of the time.
Enjoy your journey and discoveries.'
Your above description is very appealing, and especially hits a note, as I really enjoy music and have had a secondary interest in the equipment to be used to get the best out of replaying vinyl. The recent introduction of a CD Source has had quite an impact, I am now listening to music not owned as a Vinyl LP Album and have also listened to both Sources using the same Albums, and know for sure that either can be very satisfying in use.
I am looking to further reduce the focus on the Vinyl Source and the required ancillaries to keep it at its best, the idea of extending a Cart's usage life through less plays is quite attractive. To have the option on the convenience of Streaming, albeit, from stored FLAC Files or from a Network Streamed Information, along with the vast selection of music is very appealing.
I could easily see myself putting in place a rebalance across the system in relation to the use of the Sources, and your description of this would be a very interesting outcome for myself. My Wife who is an audiophile in the sense that really enjoys listening to music, was active in participation when the building of the system was being undertaken, she owns approx' 50% of the Vinyl Collection and 20% of the CD Collection, now she maybe only listens to the system for a few hours a year now as she has the use of Alexia to present all her listening experiences she wishes to share in.
I am reassuring my wife that a Streaming System set up correctly should supersede the use of Alexia, but we'll see, it is her most go to gadget beyond the phone.
