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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
soix
9,693 posts
 

@rgottschalk Thanks for the additional info, and nice system BTW! Unfortunately I got nuthin’ further to offer here but would be very interested in hearing thoughts of others with more streaming knowledge and experience here because I’m scratching my head a bit over this one. I will say given the overall level of your system I’d consider a DAC upgrade. The Qutest is a great DAC for the $$$ fer sure, but you do get quite a bit more even just moving up the Chord line, at least that’s what I’ve read from other Chord customers and FWIW.

stuartk
2,971 posts
 

@polkalover 

I liken it to cd players or the more pretentious cd transport argument.

There is nothing inherently "pretentious" about choosing separate transport and DAC over a CDP.  For many of us,the former route is a superior choice due to what we hear -- it has absolutely nothing to do with an "uppity attitude". 

 

jl35
4,035 posts
 

@rgottschalk The Audioquest Cinnamon is a good low cost/high value cable...but not up to the rest of your system...I use one with my computer...borrow some USB cables and give it a try...made a difference for me

Ag insider logo xs@2x
cleeds
5,983 posts
 

stuartk

There is nothing inherently "pretentious" about choosing separate transport and DAC over a CDP.  For many of us,the former route is a superior choice due to what we hear ...

Of course. It's also more practical because you can replace the transport as it ages out (they are all subject to mechanical as well as laser wear) without replacing the DAC. Or, you can upgrade your DAC without replacing the transport. Typically in  audio, I prefer separate components for flexibility.

vthokie83
940 posts
 

Short answer, yes it does.....greatly.

I started with a Node 130 into a Denafrips Pontus II using several different connections, and thought it sounded great.....but this was my first steaming set up. Added a Denafrips Iris DDC at the recommendation of Alvin Chee at Vinshine and I2S cables (Audioquest Vodka (better at $500) and Supra Excalibur (a deal at $150). This was a huge leap in SQ. Later added an LHY linear power supply $279, which upped the anti as well, and the sound is something I could (and do currently do) live with for quite a while.

Here's the rub: I was silly enough to borrow an Aurender N10 and a N200 streamer, and they were stupid good. I am now saving the $6,000 for an Aurender/Lumin/Innuous, at which point I'll sell the Node set up. Once I heard the SQ improvement, I cannot "unhear" it.....it's only money after all

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