To the OP:
Yes - the streamer function makes a significant difference. I started with a Node 2 going into an outboard DAC. I personally experienced a greater improvement by going to a better streamer than I did going to a better DAC. Others feel otherwise so YMMV.
I have multiple data points to support my own experience including auditioning multiple units in my system. One particularly notable experience: Before I settled into my current setup, I auditioned a Simaudio 390 D - a unit that includes preamp, DAC and their MiND streamer function. I placed the unit in system to drive my amp and connected the unit via Ethernet (not WiFi). It sounded quite nice - it’s a good unit overall.
Then I placed my current streamer back into the system (connected via Ethernet again) and used it to feed the 390 D via USB. No other changes. It was not even close. While I liked the preamp, DAC and control app for the 390 D, I passed. I was looking to upgrade my DAC and was thinking I could sell my streamer and have a better and simplified system.
I kept my streamer because it turned out to be the most significant component in my chain.
Some would say this was an unfair comparison as my streamer is 75% of the cost of the 390 which has a preamp and DAC too. Yes, it was unfair. But, I was also thinking at the time - how could it make that much difference? My bias going in was the DAC is the key.
Audition a better unit in your system. I suggest specifically listening for spatial information. Perhaps you’ll find an improvement. Perhaps not. There’s really only one way to find out.
Best,
Yes - the streamer function makes a significant difference. I started with a Node 2 going into an outboard DAC. I personally experienced a greater improvement by going to a better streamer than I did going to a better DAC. Others feel otherwise so YMMV.
I have multiple data points to support my own experience including auditioning multiple units in my system. One particularly notable experience: Before I settled into my current setup, I auditioned a Simaudio 390 D - a unit that includes preamp, DAC and their MiND streamer function. I placed the unit in system to drive my amp and connected the unit via Ethernet (not WiFi). It sounded quite nice - it’s a good unit overall.
Then I placed my current streamer back into the system (connected via Ethernet again) and used it to feed the 390 D via USB. No other changes. It was not even close. While I liked the preamp, DAC and control app for the 390 D, I passed. I was looking to upgrade my DAC and was thinking I could sell my streamer and have a better and simplified system.
I kept my streamer because it turned out to be the most significant component in my chain.
Some would say this was an unfair comparison as my streamer is 75% of the cost of the 390 which has a preamp and DAC too. Yes, it was unfair. But, I was also thinking at the time - how could it make that much difference? My bias going in was the DAC is the key.
Audition a better unit in your system. I suggest specifically listening for spatial information. Perhaps you’ll find an improvement. Perhaps not. There’s really only one way to find out.
Best,