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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 riccitone

riccitone
229 posts
 

Simply put…

they can all sound different from one another. If you cannot hear the difference between one streamer and another, then it could be a question of the associated equipment? But even a low cost system should reveal the difference.  I used an Allo Digione with Volumio as the OS. I thought it sounded pretty spectacular. Especially with the coding mods and upgraded ps.
Then, I upgraded to a Pi2 design Mercury Streamer. My mind was simply blown by the improvement. It was immense. My system was instantly elevated (and it’s not all that special a system). To the point that I had serious trouble staying away from it.

So my answer is that there can be a major difference between transports.

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