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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 thyname

thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 

@mattchanoff : how do you plan to stream? Do you subscribe to any streaming services, such as Tidal, Qobuz, and such? It looks like you have no interest in ripping your CDs and streaming them? I am assuming you don’t use Roon?

 

If only streaming from Qobuz Tidal or similar, IMO the easiest solution is a nice DAC, with built in streamer, such as this:

You will obviously need to provide internet connection to it, such as an Ethernet cable from Router or Ethernet Switch to the streaming DAC.
 

There are other brands, similar concept (I.e LUMIN others have mentioned). I agree that upgrading your DAC should be your top priority.

If you get a DAC with no streamer built in, then you can add a stand alone streamer, USB out to DAC, such a Sonore ultraRendu or microRendu (cheaper)

thyname's avatar
thyname
3,107 posts
 

@cat_doorman that’s exactly right, great description, you nailed it! Nice dose of humor too.

 

When starting with digital, one should start it slow, inexpensive, and built from there, once gaining knowledge and familiarity with the sound. And build from there, if the hobby still interests you, and the budget is available 

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