Yes, not all high end streamers are the same. First thing is, most high end streamers do not have DACs. Most high end DACs do not have streamers. Combining those functions compromise the sound quality of both. This has certainly been demonstrated in the streamers, DACs, and combined units I have had in my system or seriously auditioned.
Are all streamers the same?
Dogma says they’re all the same. Experience suggests otherwise. Price may or may not be guide. Are there solid tech reasons such as bleed of noise into the digital signal? What does “it’s all about the ‘implementation’”really mean? How come power cords and interconnects make a difference? For example, there are numerous USB cords that separate the power from the signal cables to minimize interference and noise transference.
Why don’t we have an accepted science of audio, as yet? Where’s the research compilation esp at textbook level? Yes I’m happy just listening and using my ears and my biases to make judgments; no problem.
Yet I continue to see dogma, from the USA and Europe, indeed everywhere, that remains steadfast in their disbelief in variances. It becomes tiresome at times. But hey what do I care? Lol, my pursuit of fidelity and knowledge remain equally strong.
Showing 3 responses by ghdprentice
@carlsbad2 “…I would say that if there is dogma in streamers, it is that quality matters. The statement that they are all the same is more conspiracy theory.”
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I’ve used streamers from PC and MACs, to $3K, $5K, $13K, and $22K. In general, you get what you pay for and each jump in cost results in significant improvement in sound quality. My streamer’s sound quality equals my very good vinyl system. Science is used intimately in the design and construction of the dozens of high end streamers on the market. Implementation means what design and part choices are made in designing and manufacturing a component.
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