Apple TV Streaming Sound Quality vs Streamer?

Robr45 makes some good points.

The Apple TV is a great device and can sound wonderful when connected to a well designed system, but because of how it samples/clocks, a dedicated AirPlay source/stream can sound better when properly implemented.

I mention AirPlay because it’s a high quality (bit perfect) transport/network source that is integrated into all of Apple’s operating systems and applications.  You can use Tidel directly into a nice AirPlay/DAC if you use Apple Mac or iOS (iPhone/iPad).

If you move away from the Apple TV interface, how would you prefer to control your music?

This means you are already using Apple AirPlay.  As I mentioned, there are better AirPlay sources than the Apple TV, especially for music.  The network can also make a difference.

Steve from Empirical:

Does the Synchro-Mesh improve the optical out of most TVs, especially Sony?

Does the Synchro-Mesh improve the optical out of the Apple AirPort Express (sadly becoming legacy)?

Do you know of a high quality AirPlay streamer (source only) that can take the place of, or improve upon, the AirPort Express?

Kahlenz: I agree with your assessment.  Both, the AEX and ATV, can sound excellent when using a nice DAC processor.  I also enjoy and prefer spinning vinyl sometimes.  It’s a great time to be a music listener!

You have a wonderful system, I bet your Harbeth speakers sounds amazing.  They are one of my favorites.

Maybe someone should design a high quality AirPlay DAC....?  Hmmmm....

What are some of you using, planning to use, to replace the AirPort Express?  For those of you using AirPlay only and don’t want/need additional features.

Allan
www.In-Tone.com