Apple lossless as a source

I have both the V2 and the CXN 100 in 2 different systems. The CA app allows for native Qobuz , either wired or via WiFi. Apple is either via Bluetooth, AirPlay, or Chromecast as discussed earlier.

Qobuz is a fine streaming service and it’s probably 1 step easier than having to ‘beam’ it from a phone. I was using it when my wife declared that she really wanted Apple Music. As most of my listening is from CDs that have been burned to my Melco server and then played back via the streamers, or else listening to Internet Radio with the streamers, I don’t want to pay for two streaming services. I find the Chromecast sound acceptable and the bother of having to ‘beam’ it to the streamer from the phone is no worse than the ritual of opening a CD and placing it in a player.

My complaint with Qobuz was canceling the service. They make it difficult to do from the site. Several attempts failed and every month I was disputing the charge with my credit card company. Qobuz customer support is AI, named Sebastian, which is as helpful as as dealing with Charles De Gaulle. I finally had to cancel the credit card to get rid of them. I suspect that you gave your credit card information as part of your free service. If you decide not to go with the service, check your monthly statement to make sure that you aren’t being billed

You don't mention that you have a preamp. If you don't, for a reasonable priced DAC/preamp with volume control,I would recommend the Emotiva XDA-3 for $699. They do have 10% off your first order. If you want to save some money, a used Emotiva XDA-2 or Emotiva Stealth DC-1 are reasonable choices for about $250 to $300. There is a Stealth currently listed on Audiogon. 

For a reasonable priced basic streamer, I would recommend the WiiM Mini for $99 or the WiiM Pro for $149 on Amazon.

I decided to replace the receiver and add an integrated amp with streaming built in.

Video Source: Firestick 4k ->

TV: Sony X90CL ->

Receiver: YAMAHA RX-A2A AVENTAGE ->

Center + Surround speakers

Pre-outs ->

Integrated amp: Hegel H120 ->

Main Speakers: Totem Wind

The Hegal can supply the streaming from Qubuz or Tidal. Airplay is limited to lossless 16-bit/44.1kHz. I’ll test Apple vs Qubuz/Tidal to see if I can actually hear the difference and switch as needed. Reviews of the Hagel say it has pretty good DAC, Preamp, Amp. Should be plenty to drive the Totems at any volume I listen to.

Some context that wasn’t in this post (it’s kind of hard to get the whole situation in one forum post). My Totem Tabu’s have a blown driver at high volume/low frequency. So I wanted to replace those. Found a pair of Totem Wind’s for a good price.

This meant I needed more amp power so I posted another post about that issue. Emphasis-on-stereo-but-need-a-complete-solution

@soix made me realize I could replace the receiver and use the pre-outs to a good streamer integrated amp. The Hagel overcame my resistance to combining power amp and doc/preamp. Whole thing (without the Totems is $2575).

I’ll report back once I have everything setup.

Hegel H120 can probably be used with Mconnect and you don’t have to airplay to it. 

One change, I accidently swapped the Hagel fH190 for the H120.  Luckily @soix pointed it out and I just swapped it for the H190 with the store.  Total cost is now $3275.