2. digital
  3. 153192-3293

Are "streamers" the new "transports"?

Have been following recent threads on streamers, DACs,etc. and wish to pose a question...

But, first, I would like to limit the discussion to just streamers and NOT DACs.
The analogy to which I seek clarity is the CD transport.

Assuming I have the same DAC (Chord Qutest) in use, will a "better" streamer measurably and audibly improve sound quality. If so, at what price/performance thresholds do you see?

Is it analogous to CD transports "5-10 years ago"?
Meaning, I could use:

1. Cheap Sony CDP ($200)
2. Oppo whatever model ($500)
3. Bel Canto transport ($1500)
4. Metronome or DCS ($5k+)

...and pass the signal to my DAC then to the amp. Now, as it relates to streaming...I could then...:

1. Use Apple TV or Chromecast then optical to DAC ($75)
2. Bluesound via Coax, Opt or USB to DAC ($500)
3. Lumin or Aurender ($2000)
4. Any crazy streamer that is $5K+

Sure, it's system dependent and only noticable if you have the ears and the gear for it.

But, my broader question: Outside if the "cost no object" gear ($5K+), is there a difference in the transmission of the digital signal that then creates SQ improvements via the SAME DAC?

If so, WHY?

Thanks.
ianrmack

Showing 4 responses by ianrmack

ianrmack OP
227 posts
 
@highpeakrider2...Exactly my "conclusion", too.

Sure, I would bet there are some sonic improvements. But, at what cost for what incremental improvement...?

As I have stated in other threads, I'm a "92% guy" when it comes to audio.
I respect those who seek that last 5-10%, but it comes at a cost on which I (personally) do not place value.

Maybe I just cant tell the difference...?
Maybe I don't want to...;-)
ianrmack OP
227 posts
 
OP here...;-)

Why should I "forget wifi"? I dont get it. 
First, I cant, as my stereo is across the room with no ethernet jacks around.

I have found musical satisfaction by streaming Qobuz via Bluesound to my Chord Qutest.
Also "stream" my library of music on my MacBook Pro via AirPlay to the Bluesound to Chord.

Ive been at this hobby for 30 years.
My current set up is working for me. I can A/B the same song on my CDP/Chord and Bluesound/Chord and I cant tell the difference. I'm an amatuer musician and also have a decent rig: Belles amp to Dynaudio Speical 40s with all DH Labs cables.

This thread has confirmed to me that, yes, there are more expensive solutions out there yet not many can even articulate in 2 sentaces WHY they would be superior to Bluesound assuming both solutions use the same DAC.

Stepping off the merry go round...
ianrmack OP
227 posts
 

@soix2

Yes, I did see that...thanks.
But, perhaps I am mistaken...wasnt that solution @$1299 requiring an ethernet connection?

It looked interesting, but I also dont need a CD ripper and 1 TB of storage.

My existing music collection is all on my MacBook Pro.
Any music added in the future will come from streaming services.

I will never buy another CD the rest of my life.
In fact, I threw out about 500 of them in September.

WiFi appears to work for me.
What is the "value-add" in an ethernet connection?
ianrmack OP
227 posts
 
@ sonicjoy

I think you summed it up.

I'm writing this while listening to the same Grateful Dead album I have been listening to since the 70's and it has NEVER sounded better streaming "HR" via Qobuz to my Node 2i then to Chord Qutest.I hear instrument passages that I have never before noticed.

Plus, my internet and WiFi are VERY, VERY strong and as stable as Xfinity/Comcast can be in the 3rd largest city in NA.The router is in the same room as my stereo but on opposite ends of the room.

I'm happy at 92% and know that the path to the last few increments can be finicky and VERY expensive.

Cheers, all.
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