2. digital
  3. 180956-2780

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 fastfreight

fastfreight
945 posts
 

@dvdgreco , There is no doubt that adding a good quality streamer to a good system will make a big difference.  It is likely that the Node and the Cambridge are not all that different.

I added an Auralic Aries G2.1 in front of my already good sounding Tambaqui DAC and it made (to me) a noticeable improvement.  I did not want to believe this, as there is a good streamer in my Tambaqui.  But it did.  I use USB from streamer to DAC, and also enjoy the Muon Filter in front of the streamer.  I also upgraded my network cables to Supra shielded Cat 8.

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