Why are so many people spending so much money to build “perfect” streaming system?

Walken

You are not too old. Streaming is incredibly convenient and a way to easily discover new music

You do not have to spend $8000 to get a decent set up. I would heartily  recommend a one box solution that has a dac and streamer in it like a LUMIN

I would not consider buying anything that is not a Roon endpoint. You can get a dedicated Roon server from small green computer for under $1000. And I would not suggest any of this if the sound quality wasn’t just terrific. Try setting up an analog front end for under $8000 and that would be challenging

Happy new year

I started with Bluesound and as I could hear improvements, I just kept upgrading. I eventually stumbled across a Brinkmann Nyquist and the rest is history.

Yes, as you increase your budget, the higher the resolution you will be able to hear. Just like turntables and cartridges.

Do you have to spend $8k? No, you can spend under $1K and have a pretty good set up-But, just pretty good.😉

Bob

Bluesound Node 130 $500, Supra Excalibur USB cable $140,, and Denafrips Pontus II DAC $1,800......$2,440 total for a great streaming setup with a top notch versatile DAC

Take it to the next level by adding a Denafrips Iris DDC $550, and Supra 8K HDMI/I2S $80......$3,070. Amazing sound

Hi,  

  I don't think it's too costly at less than a cd a month.   If you are lucky  Tidal offers veterans a 6 dollar per month rate for a world of music!   Assuming you already have an amplifier and speakers,  a node and a few dollars a month will have you setup quickly and fit resonant cash. Then enjoy! 

The OP just me an offensive PM. Guy is whacked.