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Another person going digital and full of questions

I'm yet another new member trying to figure out the digital streaming world.  I've been streaming Tidal and Idagio from my desktop computer through an RME ADI-2 dac and into various headphones for a while.  Now I'd like to add digital streaming on my main system.  I'm just looking for a source that would provide streaming services to my existing preamp (Audible Illusions) amp (Audio Research) and speakers (Wilson Benesch Act 1).  I'm looking for something to complement my other sources, a VPI turntable and a Rega CD player and Benchmark 1 DAC.  I don't want to rip my CDs or play any stored music files.  So far, I'm learning that there are more recent and better DACs out there than the old Benchmark, and that I should consider a quieter box than my computer to connect to ethernet.  But I'm lost in a sea of streamers, servers, reclockers, power supplies, etcetera, most with unfamiliar brand names.

I'd appreciate any suggestions.  budget in the $5k range but can stretch a little.

mattchanoff

Showing 2 responses by ghdprentice

ghdprentice
7,404 posts
 

@jjss49 

Excellent answers! 
 

Particularly the note that virtually all music starts out digitally recorded today. 
 

I have noted elsewhere my digital and analog ends have exactly the same character as well as level of detail. This really says something profound about lots of things. Both ends are composed of carefully chosen high end products… and in general in the same price range. The system is very good sounding and very musical.

ghdprentice
7,404 posts
 

Streaming has become my main stream. I recommend a Aurender streamer. I own two, it is a game changer. Ripping CDs is a waste of time in todays world. I wound get a Aurender N100 to start. It should be a huge improvement. Then stop, enjoy and think about a new DAC later.

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