Streaming

Well late to discussion but I am also 76 and have hearing aids, but still like to hear music and its nuances. Not sure what you meant about forget laptops and not sure your internet situation, but my simple system is a laptop connected to my Rotel A12 playing thru my Meadowlark Kestrel Hot Rods. I use Amazon for streaming, already a Prime member so HD streaming is $99 for year. Rotel has internal Wolfson DAC which I find more than adequate. So investment in laptop ($300), Rotel ($550) and speakers (used$4oo if you can find them). for a total of $1250. The Rotel has a remote which surprisingly works with my laptop so I can adjust tone controls (I boost bass and treble due to my hearing loss) and can skip, pause, etc.  Love streaming as I can choose an album I feel like listening to and music will just stay all day on this genre with no effort on my part.

Just another option.

For me the main enjoyment of streaming music has been the discovery of new bands and new music that will never see the light of day on corporate main stream radio. You can find the bands and music from streaming net stations like Austin Blues Radio for free.

Hi. sheridanmartinj

You and I are peers of exact same age, and quite possibly, share the same digital Tech skills.  In the late 90's I concluded that chasing great sound in both vinyl and digital worlds was financially unsustainable.  I opted for the digital future and never looked back.  No regrets.  My musician son has a pleasing retro vinyl rig and I continue having great respect for high-end vinyl playback for those with the means.  

Find a skilled Audio Tech in setting you up to stream lossless music from your PC or laptop to an outboard DAC (digital to analog converter.)  This allows you to use the remainder of your current analog system.  With a reasonably modern computer, the cost is pretty much free for the required software.  Military discounts can also be found on streaming services for under $12.00 a month.

The richness of the music availability and quality of playback is...put simply...stunning!  Is the best vinyl playback possible better than digital streaming capability...maybe, but it's not my concern.  I'm a music lover first and foremost.  Digital did not strike my emotions UNTIL the late 90's, and it was game over as the technology advanced. 

Maybe you have a college or university nearby to find a Tech savvy student with music interests?  It IS intimidating, however, there ARE solutions, including ultra-convenient controls from a tablet or laptop from your sweetspot. 

A close friend / audio guy / musician is approaching age 80 and uses his iPad to stream from TIDAL.  He loves modern classical and modern jazz and raves about the quality, ease and access whenever we visit.  Best wishes!

More Peace!  Pin