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 vthokie83

I have (and love) a BlueSound Node 130. It has a great interface, and is easy and intuitive to use. For a while I thought about upgrading, but instead went with a DDC (Denafrips Iris DDC). It isolates the signal galvanically and optically, so the signal gets sent to the DAC (Denafrips Pontus II) cleanly.....I've done a review elsewhere here.

I'll keep what I have now as I'm completely happy with it, but at some point will want to compare the quality of that pair with higher end streamer. Price will be hard to beat, $600 for the Node 130 and $500 for the Iris DDC; damn good pair for $1,100