Digital newbie


Hi all,

Could someone give me the 101 of digital today? I’m back in the hobby after a decade-ish hiatus and would like the basics of streamers v network transports v network players, etc and how Tidal/Qobuz/Roon play into it.  I've been on Aurender's and Lumin's website and I think I get the gist but wanted some clarificiation.  If there’s a specific thread for newbies like me, could you point me that way? Thanks!

cjlundberg

TAS and Stereophile both have had digital for newbie articles in the past few years that already may be a bit dated but you can start there.  It might help if you start with what you do know.  
  There are some posters on this site that like to ridicule newbies so if you are a bit intimidated by that you can PM me and I can get you started.

Jut a suggestion, before you start spending lots of money, try using your computer as a streamer to get the feel. That is how I started. I had to spend 12K before I found a streamer, that sounded better to my ears.

Streaming totally change my life!!!  I was on the fence a few years ago and bought a Bluesound Vault 2i.   In the past 5 years I discovered more great music than in 50 years !   I still play vinyl and rarely a CD ,  but most of what I listen to is streamed 

What are the other components in your system ?   Knowing that will hopefully yield good suggestions on what price point is a good compliment 

PCs can sound good, it's the fan noise that irritated me.     Qobuz is doing a free 30 day trial.  Good way to get your feet wet.   I use Qobuz across all of my devices, Tablet, phone, PC,  Vault, Aurender.    

I use it in my van through my phone...   Best money I spend on entertainment 

Here's a good primer 

https://pmamagazine.org/understanding-music-streaming-a-guide-for-beginners/