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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 1 response by glennewdick

glennewdick's avatar
glennewdick
1,788 posts
 
I think you've hit the nail on the head grab a Bluesound node 2, to start or possibly forever, and add a DAC like the ones you mentioned. I have the Gungnir multi bit in my system and its great specially for the money. 

reason i say start with the Bluesound node 2i is simplicity and a very good app design (this is how you control it). later when your more confident in the various ways to stream add something better with out a huge loss in money from the node or obviously use it elsewhere. 

a good source of information about various streaming solutions is John Darko (audio reviewer YouTube channel) well he does everything else as well but has quite a bit of streaming DAC content. 

BACK TO BASICS Part 2: Music servers & network streamers - YouTube

glen 
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