Best streamer for a returning audio guy


Hello, hope you all can help. My question is what is the most reasonable streamer to try in my system to see if it works for me? 
  A little background is in order . I’m an older gentleman, who was into audio years ago. I’m currently rebuilding my system with newer technology. I have significant older components. Such as Adcom separates, ( not currently using), Yamaha reciever rxa 2000 as a preamp, Rotel amp driving center speaker and rears, crown class d driving main speakers, I have many speaker choices. Currently using Kef 105/2 as mains ( have Martin Logan’s as well) , Martin logan cinema as center, Martin Logan’s a rear surround. All interconnects and speaker wires are morrow audio. 
 I am / was old school with over 1500 vinyl album’s from years of collecting. About 100 cds. One interesting note, this rebirth of my interest in audio came with my wife giving me a turntable for Christmas several years ago. Finally joked it up and after 30 years I was hooked again!!!

  On to my question, it appears that almost everyone is now streaming their music. Ok, I understand the concept ( have Sirius in the car) . What is the best unit to try this out. Can’t break the bank, used is ok, actually preferred. Any outlet advice would be appreciated. 
  I’m working to eventually get to the level of most of you. I have visited my local real hi fi store and have heard the”great” components and eventually I’ll get there. Thanks, and looking forward to your replies. Twodogs112.

128x128twodogs112

Showing 2 responses by mahler123

I have both the Node2 and Cambridge CXN 60 in different systems.  Either is a great into to streaming that are good enough to be endpoints as well.  The CA has AirPlay and Chromecast and sounds better, as well as great Internet Radio and podcasting ability.  It cost twice the price of the Node.

Not sure my the OP went off on @ghdprentice , who I add my thumb up to as a Good Guy, but I am puzzled at some of of his other statements, such as he can’t afford a Bluesound Node as an entry level component while he brags to @cleeds about his Rolex collection.  He doesn’t seem cash strapped.  Clearly he could sell off one Rolex and probably have something finer than the Node2.  I think it would be worth doing without one watch to have the ability to listen to virtually all of recorded music in existence in really good sound, and the OP background with music suggests that he would value good sound.  
  I have auditioned a few streamers in the $100-$200 range and compared to the Node they sound clearly, audibly inferior.  I am not saying that the Node is the Holy Grail of Hi Fi, but I do believe that represents the floor for High End streaming. It does high resolution, MQA, every streaming service under the sun. For the ceiling, read all the other threads here. 
  We can afford what we value.  Unless you are a Plutocrat this involves trade offs.  It might involve owning one less Rolex to gain the joy of well reproduced music.

what the OP shouldn’t expect the joy of ownership from a Timex sold at Walmart to be equivalent to one of his pieces of fine craftsmanship.  Nor should he expect high end audio performance at transitor radio prices