DAC - Streamer or all in one unit


Hello all,

Starting from scratch presently and having been out of the Digital SOTA loop for a bit..

looking to build an above average primary stereo system. am trying to decide which way to go with a digital ONLY rig.

go with separates, and get a mid level dAC or higher and as competent a Streamer, or an all in one integrated unit which addresses red book or CD rips and streaming needs/desires without the need for ROON., regardless.

i’m guessing the investment for either avenue to as much as $10K all in, perhaps.

not opposed to giant killer big bang for buck gear that drops in below my initial budgetarry target either.

obviously the obligatory additions of more wires is duly noted if separates are the path. and they would be addressed apart from any chosen budgetary target.

your thoughts   or first hand eXP with recently released (’18 to ’20) DACs, and streamers in general, would be immensely well recieved and definitely appreciated.

thanks much!!
blindjim

Showing 1 response by fuzztone

I like my Directstream DAC.  FPGA with free updates will keep it current. Darko liked it equal to a $12K Chord Dave.
Then all you need is https://stackaudio.co.uk/link2/
With free shipping and 30 day trial.
I put my music on SSD's and find it easier and better SQ than my Synology.
You could drop all your tracks on:
https://www.amazon.com/Silicon-Power-Rugged-Portable-External/dp/B07RMYGZ1L/ref=sxts_sxwds-bia-wc-p1...
and have plenty room for ripping more.
I also recommend Magna Mano and miniDSP SHD Studio streamers.  Both have different feature sets.