Any audiophile use computer (MacBook) as your audio streaming source?

I use an old MBAir as a media server. I do have a usb to a DAC if I want to listen to my digital (lossless) crap through my analog system, but I rarely bother. 

Sounds like pretty much everyone reporting sonic improvements from switching to a dedicated streamer so far had a macbook or macmini before.

Personally I wouldn’t use apple for a door stop, but I’m biased that way :)

In any event, it’s not surprising because no computer puts out great audio in factory configuration, notwithstanding the belief that apple "sounds" better, and apple supposedly uses / used a slightly better audio / DAC chip in at least some of their products. That may help a little if you plug desktop speakers in your macbook, but in a more serious listening configuration the PC’s onboard audio circuitry is bypassed.

A dedicated PC can cost more than some used streamers, but the main point of a PC is its almost limitless configurability, giving users the peace of mind that they will never be locked into inadequate, subpar or obsolete proprietary software.

@soix ,

but how many people here who are audiophiles and not computer techs are qualified or are willing to undertake such a project

When I posted a response last night, I wanted to indicate that without being disrespectful to others or hurting people’s egos. I think you put it perfectly. In my case, I would rather take my car to a shop to get an oil change and brakes done. But some of my friends do it themselves.

@devinplombier , you are right - a purpose built PC can be upgraded as needed and will either equal or surpass a dedicated streamer. I have reached out to multiple folks on audiophile style and there are a quite a few who switched to making their own server and running HQPlayer up-sampling everything to DSD 256 and higher. These folks are extremely pleased with the results. I want to try HQPlayer myself and hear what is the difference between DSD512 coming our of Foobar Vs HQPlayer. I am eyeing a used T+A DAC200, since new ones are beyond my budget :-(. But will do this in a couple of months.

And yet, one of audio's long-time reviewers (Srajan Ebaen with 6moons) uses an iMac as his source in his main system.  Of course he has add-ons, such as an outboard SSD, Singxer SU-6 DDC, and LHY Audio switch, but still.  He recently used that source when reviewing the 20,000 euro Cube Audio Lotus 10 speakers.

To the OP, I suggest you try Holo Audio's Red DDC/Streamer for $800.  You can first try it as a DDC between your MacBook and DAC, and then maybe as a stand-alone streamer.  If you use Roon, you could try running Roon core on your MacBook and Roon Ready player on the Red, as a streamer.  Later, if you choose to add a server, you could try one of the SGC models or one from Roon, run it on your network, and use the Red as your streamer.  Even if you eventually upgrade to a better streamer, or a server/streamer, the Red is one of the better measuring DDCs that offers both galvanic isolation and reclocking prior to your DAC.  It also outputs I2S in the event you purchase a DAC with that type of input.  The Singxer SU-6 DDC is also good but the ability to use the Red as a streamer also may make that a better deal for you.  Lots of versatility and something that could make an immediate positive improvement, without changing out your MacBook, for only $800. 

@milpai The T+A DAC200 is essentially two DACs (PCM and DSD) in one, so a very good choice in this scenario. Plus, it looks great!