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Is computer audio a bust?

In recent months, I have had several audio acquaintances return to CDPs claiming improved SQ versus their highly optimized computer transports (SS drives, external power supplies, etc, etc).

I wanted to poll people on their experiences with computer "transports." What variables have had the most impact on sonics? If you bailed on computers, why?

I personally have always believed that the transport, whether its a plastic disc spinner or computer, is as or more important than the dac itself and thus considerable thought and energy is required.

agear
clio09
3,355 posts
 
Can the PLEX server be run directly from a NAS like Synology? That is the big benefit of MinimServer in my set up.
calloway
874 posts
 
i agree completely with audioengr. i well put together computer-based system is superb. i have had a Lumin A1 with an upgraded PSU for over a year and my system sounds much better then it did with my Meitner CDSA-SE player.The convenience is incredible. i will never go back....
wisnon
700 posts
 
Am I missing something here? Can CDPs play DXD or DSD128? If not, then what is the discussion about? If I run natively recorded hirez/DSD thru the right CA gear, then CDPs cant touch that.

For RBCD, we can have a debate, but CDPs are inherently too limited. A CDP Dac may also be compromised unless they run separate chipsets.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,198 posts
 
Plex server runs on Windows for sure. Maybe other OSs. Check the download site to see. SOme NAS might work.

Plex client apps run on Android, and IOS. Also a web app via web browser.

Requires further investigation to know what NAS devices might be supported so far.
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,198 posts
 
For greater than CD resolution, computer audio may be the only viable ticket in town at this point with any stable future ahead of it.

Personally, I have not gone there to-date in that I am happy with CD resolution in most cases and the benefits I foresee do not outweigh the overhead and cost involved, though Plex might help put me there sooner rather than later. It supports very high streaming rates for HD video. NOt exactly sure yet how much of that carries over into audio libraries, but when I stream audio at the higher bitrates available, some CD level or higher, it sounds VERY GOOD!!!!
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