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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 2 responses by erik_squires

erik_squires
16,644 posts
 

Only a boob would believe that.

I did write that too fast, and I'm sorry but let's be nice to those just starting to learn.

Even the best asynchronous DAC's can be impacted by really bad streams/streamers, especially streaming radio.

For the most part, a good low noise clock on a DAC with asynch USB is pretty awesome but they can't do magic, and if things upstream get bad enough, including if a digital ground loop occurs the DAC could be subject to less than ideal performance. 

 

erik_squires
16,644 posts
 

I think three ways a streamer can impact sound quality:

  • USB / Coax ground loops
  • Excess jitter
  • AC line noise

I think paying attention to the quality of the wall wart (if used) and making sure the USB cable is isolated (when possible, not all DAC's like this) takes care of most.  At the end of the day though your DAC is going to be subject to the clock of the streamer, so having a streamer with a good buffer and low phase noise clock is important. 

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