Signalyst HQPlayer - Is it worth the upgrade?

I run Roon core on custom server using Euphony operating system. Euphony has the ability to run HQPlayer inside Roon in both 30 minute free trials or purchased full version. In my setup I prefer running Roon sans HQPlayer in 'bridged' mode, where  Roon core is on the custom server, Roon Endpoint on my OpticalRendu streamer. HQPlayer simply sounds more 'processed' or hifi like vs my favored Roon only setup. I also minimize any of the 'extra' processing Roon provides, therefore, none of their inferior to HQPlayer dsp, no volume leveling, no volume control, no or throttling of their individual tune or library analysis.

Its been my experience that all this 'extra' processing only emphasizes the digital nature of digital, Yes, there were certain aspects of sound that seem improved in the short run, especially when my digital setup wasn't fully realized. But over the years as my streaming/digital setup has improved to where it now competes favorably to my pretty nice vinyl setup, in other words now finally sounds fully analog, I don't want any semblance of a 'processed' or digital sound to reappear. Based on my experience I now judge HQPlayer as benefiting digital setups that need band aids to cover up for deficiencies somewhere in streaming or full system chain, Get your entire streaming chain in order, this means all the way from internet service through dac, and of course we also need to get our systems and rooms in order which further negates the need for dsp. If you don't need 'help' with resolution, transparency, tonal balance, timbre, in room frequency response at listening position, dynamics whats the point of HQPlayer? Sometimes less is more.

@mgrif104 ,

That DAC you own is a level above the DAC 200 and HQ Player can only take it higher, per my experience. I am new to this whole HQ Player setup and not using the NAA feature. Have you tried the AudiophileStyle forum? I would like to know about this feature (for future) and can post it there. BTW, your system is awesome, yet simple at the same time.

@lalitk ,

I have always admired your setup. Very meticulous and well treated. As for the external PC that goes into sleep, you need to go into settings and choose the power plan to "High Performance". Then you can edit the "power plan" such that when it is "plugged in", it should never sleep, but the display can go into sleep in 1 minute. I suggest that you give that a try and PM me, if needed

@sns 

To each his own and I am glad that you found what you like. Thanks for sharing your experience.

@milpai

Thank you for the kind words! It’s always rewarding to hear that my setup resonates with someone as discerning as yourself. Your advice on managing the PC’s sleep settings is appreciated. I will PM you once I revisit HQPlayer.

@milpai 

Good points. I did post something similar over on audiophilestyle forums - and on what’s best - but haven’t gotten much guidance. However, there are a lot of DAC 200 owners so I’ll try a parallel path to what they’re suggesting.

I only just purchased the SDV 3100 - haven’t taken delivery of it yet. Candidly, the DAC 200 is so good on DSD that I hesitated to upgrade. I’ve told this story elsewhere. When I first auditioned the DAC 200 - I used it with my streamer converting whatever Qobuz or my stored files fed it. It was good, but it wasn’t massively better than the dac it replaced (which was a pretty nice and well respected Dac in its own right). It was when I fed it native DSD files converted by the Sirius processor that I had a “holy crap” moment and purchased it.

I hopefully get the unit later this week - but the holidays and family arriving mean it will be January (or later?) before I get things settled in. I certainly think it’s worth trying HQ player and roon with this unit. If that combination sonically outperforms my streamer and processor - I’d be delighted. And if it were also convenient (no tinkering, set and forget), I would be able to sell my other gear and reduce boxes, cables and clutter and my wife would be delighted.

Thanks for the kind words on my system. Not as purposeful in set up as yours (nice room and set up!) but it gets the job done nicely and it’s relatively “invisible “ in our living space.

More to come.

Best,

@mgrif104 

Congratulations on SDV 3100. The SDV 3100 is a serious upgrade, especially if you’re already impressed by the DAC 200 with DSD. It’ll be interesting to hear your impressions once it’s settle down in your system. 

T+A knows how to do justice with DSD files much to the tune of my Merging Tech +player. I had the same holy crap moment when I first heard my collection of DSD files. You’re in for a royal treat with SDV 3100.