Ethernet streaming

I switched my music streaming to using Audirvana Studio software on my MAC Laptop Computer (14-inch MacBook Pro M2 12 Core/19CPU). I use Audirvana Studio remote on my iPad to find the albums, playlists, etc. My Bricasti 21 DAC connects to the Interent using an Ethernet cable to my MAC COMPUTER. This setup has resulted in my music being clearer and more open (replaced my sever). BTW, the Audirvana Studio interface is excellent. I have many sorting options including label name searching. Audirvana is easy to use (yes, there is a learning curve). Audirvana has many additional settings that I have to review.

The removal of the music streamer, and having the Bricasti DAC connect directly to my MAC computer has removed a layer from the Music and made it more musical and clearer. I was not expecting this much improvement. I was not expecting the use of Audirvana Studio App to improve the sound quality this much. It is amazing.

I was also concerned about the Audirvana Studio interface but I learned it very quickly. Yes, I am still learning but making good progress.

See link to Audirvana Studio App:

As noted above, everyone has a different opinion on using a streamer vs. using a DAC connection using an Ethernet connection. I suggest you do more research and, if possible, schedule a demo so you can decide for yourself. Obviously, the question is what sounds good to you.

In general separate function components are better. By separating the internal components further typically greater fidelity can be achieved. Additionally, you have more flexibility as you can only upgrade the streamer or upgrade the DAC. Unless you simply do not have the room, separates are the way to go if high sound quality is your objective.

@hgeifman 

That is very much the same way Srajan does with his system. He's tried many servers and found that something like the Taiko Supreme was needed to  better his setup but wasn't willing to drop $34K on it. 

I don't stream but find his reasoning and findings reasonable. 

All the best,
Nonoise

I prefer separate streamer and DAC but would "settle" for an Aurender A30....

I have a N200 with my DAC and almost bought the Bricasti plus network card 

The Aurender is worth the money if you stream a lot and have a DAC that can exploit how good it is.  

I have an Aurender A15. Like it, dac is good but not exceptional. Looking at a new dac.  A15 has usb out, but no other output.  Also want roon flexibility, maybe Aurender n200 for conductor use and new dac with roon endpoint for Ethernet streaming?