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A Streamer or Dedicated DAC With McIntosh MX110Z???

Would like to add a streaming device to my McIntosh MX110Z. Speaking with McIntosh I learned only a  device with fix level outputs is the preferred way to go because of the internal preamp with the streamers..Cambridge Azur 851N as a example.

This is where I need help. Am I to assume all streamers have variable outputs? Or can some variable outputs on certain streamers be set to fix level output?

Then comes the question of using a stand alone DAC which I would connect a IPAD or such device to instead of a music streamer.

Which is best, stand alone DAC or music streamer ( if possible)?

Is  anyone doing this with a MX110Z, if so what worked best?

Thanks to one and all.

medialies

Showing 2 responses by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
7,736 posts
 

OP,

 

Great story. My partner (36 years) gives me grief about my audio purchases… but, in weak moments admits I deserve them. She knows how hard I have worked an how much I have given her (thank god she does not like jewelry).  

ghdprentice
7,736 posts
 

The best streamers are single function boxes made only to do this. They do not have variable output. The best is probably the Aurender W20SE… although I believe the W30 will be available soon. It is used nearly universally at audio shows for digital source. I can attest to equal Red Book CD quality on streaming the same resolution and better resolution on higher resolution. It equals my analog rig for sound quality… see my systems.

 

You want a separate DAC at the same or better quality. I can highly recommend the Berkeley Alpha Reference DAC. Altough I have a slight preference for my Audio Research Reference DAC CD9se. But exceptionally hard call. There are other exceptional DACs as well, but they can get pretty pricy.

In general combined Streamer / DACs will not sound as good as separates, all things being equal. So, I recommend separates.

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