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

@cleeds its not a belief system when its digital.  its like saying records sound better than cd's .  technically they can't but many believe they do.  that's a belief.  just because every says it -  doesn't make it true.  

... its not a belief system when its digital ...

Insisting that a demonstrable, measurable difference is  "insignificant" is a subjective judgment and so very much part of a "belief system." It doesn't matter if we're talking digital, analog or kumquats. A difference that may not matter to me may make a very big difference to you. Anyone who insists his preferences are the only valid preferences, or who attempts to disguise a preference as a fact, is very much promoting a belief system.

polka lover not true 

 

we routinely compare streamers we sell nad, naim atoll and 432evoservers 

 

and we have sold aurender sotm innous baetis,and auraylic

all were run usb into many high end dacs 

they all sound different no matter the dac.

 

Dave and Troy

Audio intellect NJ

US importers 432evo music servers

OP -- I think the answer is fairly simple. If you believe streamers don't make a difference and anyone who thinks these things matter in the digital domain is blinded by some kind of a belief system, then stick with what works for you. Buy the cheapest streamer you can find and live happily ever after. 

@dave777tx 

Hi.  Side bar here.

I have an Innuos Zentih Mk3 and Phoenix USB.  I'm committed to this path so I2S and other methods of sending to 1s and 0s to my Chord Qutest DAC don't interest me.

That being said, do you think I should add the Phoenix NET switch and an audiophile ethernet cable (e.g., AQ Diamond) to the mix?  I am an engineer and I'm having trouble wrapping my head around the concept of spending another $3-4 k to maximize my streaming experience.

Thanks!