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Do Streamer only devices really impact sound quality?

From a layman mindset, a streamer transmits electronic information to a dac via coaxial cable or other connection. The electronic information I believe is standardized for all streamers. That said, the streamer itself could not influence the sound quality heard by the audience. I think it is bit-perfect information coming across to the dac. 

So for instance a Bluesound 2i   vs  Cambridge CXN V2 streamer should sound identical with the same connections and equipment used and of course same streaming service and content.

 

thoughts appreciated if I have this correct?  

dvdgreco

Showing 1 response by daledeee1

daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
610 posts
 

I made the following budget minded changes to the front end after initial  setup.  I have BS Node 2i and Topping D90 with AKM chip. Took some time research and learn.  Discussions such as this are very helpful.

1.  Better power cords for Node and D90.   $200

2. Hardwired ethernet cable to streamer. $40

3. Dedicated power circuit for audio system. $500

4.  Upgraded power supply to Node.  $130

5. COAX  from streamer to DAC. $40

6. DX Engineering EMI/RF filters on ethernet. $50

7. New cable modem router combination.  It included a LPS and eliminated  an older router and wall warts.  FREE

8. Herbies firm fat dots.  $80

Cumulatively,  these changes made nice changes.  Depth of soundstage,  transients, sense of space, details revealed in bass, etc.

Then I  added a Add-Powr Symphony IO.  This improved the sound even more.

Sure, each step could have cost more and would probably improve the sound even more.  If you upgrade the above steps, the cost goes from 100s to 1000s.

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