I’d add the Innuos Zen Mk.3 ($2600) to your list of candidates. I like that it has a CD drive that let’s you rip your CDs right into its onboard memory — very easy and convenient. Watch Darko’s video review of the unit where he compares to other streamers and also gives some explanations for why streamers make a difference. I found it fairly interesting having not read much on this topic before. FWIW.
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.
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.