Are all streamers the same?

@danager 

mate my Cambridge MXN10 is a cute small scale unit.

https://forum.audiogon.com/posts/2717861
 

Some great examples of the impact of power supplies, cords, and associated electronics as having a direct impact on the audio signal.

Thanks to all posters here. There are some great examples of the reasons for differences as well as variations in experience in different use cases. There are few generalizations beyond case specific, and of course, the audio signal coming out of a streamer including or excluding noise varies.

Not all audio streamers are the same, and they can indeed sound different. Here are a few key factors that contribute to these differences:

1. Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC): The quality of the DAC inside the streamer can significantly impact sound quality. Higher-end streamers often have better DACs, which can produce clearer and more detailed audio.
2. Build Quality and Components: The materials and components used in the construction of the streamer, such as capacitors and resistors, can affect the sound. High-quality components can reduce noise and distortion.
3. Software and Firmware: The software and firmware that manage the streaming process can also influence sound quality. Some streamers have better algorithms for handling digital signals, leading to improved audio performance.
4. Connectivity Options: The types of connections available (e.g., Ethernet, Wi-Fi, USB) and their quality can impact the stability and quality of the audio signal.

Regarding the power supply, it plays a crucial role in the performance of an audio streamer:

• Noise and Interference: A high-quality power supply can reduce electrical noise and interference, which can otherwise degrade the audio signal. This is particularly important for sensitive audio equipment.
• Stability: A stable power supply ensures that the streamer operates consistently, which can help maintain sound quality. Fluctuations in power can introduce noise and affect the performance of the internal components.
• Isolation: Some high-end streamers use isolated power supplies to prevent interference from other devices. This isolation can lead to a cleaner and more accurate sound.

In summary, while all audio streamers serve the same basic function, their design, components, and power supply can lead to noticeable differences in sound quality. If you’re looking for the best possible audio experience, it’s worth considering these factors when choosing a streamer123.

CoPilot.

The phrase “bits are bits” suggests that digital audio data, once encoded, remains unchanged and should theoretically sound the same regardless of the playback system. However, the reality is a bit more nuanced.

Digital audio quality is influenced by several factors:

1. Bit Depth: This refers to the number of bits used to represent each audio sample. Higher bit depths allow for more detailed and accurate representation of the audio signal, reducing noise and increasing dynamic range¹. For example, 16-bit audio is common for CDs, while 24-bit or higher is used in professional audio recording¹.

2. Sample Rate: This is the number of samples taken per second. Higher sample rates can capture more detail and higher frequencies, but they also require more storage and processing power². Common sample rates include 44.1 kHz (CD quality) and 96 kHz or 192 kHz for high-resolution audio².

3. Digital-to-Analog Conversion (DAC): The quality of the DAC can affect how accurately the digital signal is converted back to analog. Poor-quality DACs can introduce noise and distortion³.

4. Jitter: This is a timing error in the digital signal that can cause distortion. High-quality digital audio systems aim to minimize jitter³.

While the digital data itself (the bits) doesn’t change, the processes involved in recording, storing, and playing back digital audio can impact the final sound quality. So, while “bits are bits” holds true in a strict digital sense, the overall audio experience can be influenced by the factors mentioned above.