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Digital Front end for Dummies

Have been an analog guy and will likely continue to be but am getting fiber optic Internet (I live in the middle of nowhere so this is a big deal) and am interested in developing a digital front end. My goal is really just to have a streaming set up, either Tidal or Qobuz, with a solid DAC. My dilemma is that I don't want an all in one as I feel like I'd rather have the opportunity to change DAC's later if I want. I also don't want to lay out a pile of money all at once. Wondering if I should get something like a Bluesound Node 2 to start and then add a DAC later or go with a less expensive front end like an Audioengine B-Fi and spend more on a DAC like a used Ayre Codex, Schiit Gungnir, or Denafrips Area II. Rest of my system is:
Rogue Audio RP-7Rogue Audio M180 monoblocksVandersteen Quatro Woods
rmdmoore

Showing 2 responses by fuzztone

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,505 posts
 
Everyone should start with a Blesound and then you'll know where to go next.
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,505 posts
 
oldhvymec

Streaming iS Qobuz (I recommend over Tidal) for lossless.
BluSound for starters because it has it’s own player app (BluOS) that is virtually plug and play so It’s the easiest for beginners.
Start with its DAC and when you try an external one your listening preferences will guide you to the SQ you prefer.
It plays virtually all services.but MQA which is a money grab. If you want Roon, (try it on your computer) then you are better off with a Ras Pi.
Less money for better sound.
See Erich for that.
You’ll appreciate the savings that you can apply to your subscription.
It displays art better than Volumio does.
(Not as good as Orange Squeeze)
It plays most ALL internet radio and has plenty of USB power for local SSDs.

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