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Help settle a streaming argument!

This is a SQ argument and is as follows-  I argue if you connect your streamer to an outboard DAC the streamer does not matter it’s just serving the music to the outboard DAC to do the work.  Therefore, buy a basic streamer.  The other is that you need to buy a top quality streamer and DAC to get great SQ. 
 

I liken it to cd players or the more pretentious cd transport argument- if the intent is to connect to outboard DAC the cd player doesn’t matter the outboard DAC DOES!
 

features and functionality aside!  Thoughts…..

polkalover
nonoise's avatar
nonoise
11,040 posts
 

Yes, the question was answered as the DAC remained the constant and going to a better streamer made all the difference. I think your premise about pretentious CDT arguments laid bare your bias.

All the best,
Nonoise

mike_in_nc
1,166 posts
 

It seems logical that the streamer (or CD transport) should not matter, but my experience has been (in both cases) that it does.

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
1,016 posts
 

Streamers make a difference in SQ in my experience

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
4,046 posts
 

Absolutely!   I went from a Vault 2i which was my first streamer and a great way to get into streaming and stored audio.  I replaced it with an Aurender N200 and the difference is not subtle.  It was a worthwhile purchase for sure. 

audioman58's avatar
audioman58
4,274 posts
 

That’s a loaded question ,for the Quality of the streamer can make a big difference 

in its power supplies,and regulation , it’s quality of Crystal or Clock it’s processing 

this is even before you get to the dac , also the Quality of the Ethernet cables ,and USB cables, as well as power cord quality.

every factor here counts in a quality Audiophile streaming system.

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