It is possible for a DAC to reclock, even when SPDIF is used. The DAC 9 manual indicates that it uses “reclocking for all outputs”. I think that may be why the streamer wouldn’t matter, even using SPDIF. In addition, the purpose of reclocking is to eliminate jitter from the incoming signal. If a source is a low jitter device to begin with, reclocking may have de minimus effect.
Discerning a difference between streamers is difficult...only me or common for all?
I have struggled to appreciate the upgrade to the streamer in my system. A couple years ago I had an Audio Research DAC 8 being fed by a Bluesound Node 2i. I picked up an Aurender N10 and did not appreciate anything so sold the N10. I tried a couple all-in-one units. First was the Aurender A20 and I was happy but curious about dCS. I got a Bartok 2.0 and felt the music was more natural sounding from the Bartok and sold the A20. I have always wanted the Audio Research DAC 9 to match all my other AR gear so got one that showed up on eBay a couple weeks ago. Since I couldn’t use the Bartok to stream I ordered a new Bluesound Node Nano so I could utilize the DAC 9 immediately. The pair sounded wonderful but I did not compare it to the Bartok. I ended up getting a quick buyer and it was already gone. The following week I purchase an Aurender W20. I was prepared to have my mind blown....but no. Some albums I could not tell any difference in the sound and others I think the W20 sounded slightly better but again...nothing huge. For the money and the space the W20 took on my shelf, I sold it. Over the years I always appreciate upgrades for all other components. This makes me feel like I am losing my mind. Have any others experienced this regarding streamers? I want to try more. Auralic and Lumin are on my list.
Thanks,
Dana
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While I respect your opinion and take on Ref 6, I would like to point out an important distinction - you do not have an all out ARC system. At the time, I was running Aurender N10 through DAC9 ➡️ Ref 6 ➡️ GS150 and I could discern no appreciable differences between N10 and BS Vault feeding SPDIF/BNC inputs of DAC9. Later, switching to EMM Labs DA2 DAC revealed the not so subtle differences between the two aforementioned streamers. So my previous post was strictly referencing my experience with N10/Vault in an all out ARC system. |
This has been an enjoyable discussion to learn of others' experiences. I definitely feel more confident but still puzzled that these Aurender streamers are not showing more of an improvement in my system. I enjoy trying new equipment so will look at other brands when it makes sense. For now, I am enjoying the cable upgrade, I just talked to Captain at Audio Envy and ordered his coax. |
@dhite71 yes excellent discussion! I now know if I sell my Bricasti DAC and get an ARC DAC9 I can also sell my Aurender, pick up a $450 BS Node, and pocket the cash from the Aurender sale! I am only half joking here by the way LOL |
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