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Does the 'Buck' Start with the DAC?

Some members have expressed that the server / streaming front end is less important than the DAC.

I subscribe to the position that "Everything Matters"

As I consider front end choices, I'm trying to gauge if I should be leaning more heavily on a DAC versus a SOURCE (server / streamer).

Feedback and perspective from both camps, or any others, will be helpful. Thank you.

Please Note:  I'm not looking for validation of the position that "only the bits" matter... I accept that some believe this wholeheartedly... and that's okay by me. 
david_ten

Showing 1 response by ianrmack

ianrmack
227 posts
 
OK, these last few posts are a real aberration and at the highest 0.001% of this hobby. They should be ignored....;-)

I think the key is to match streamers and DACs intelligently.
As with everything, I target "92-95%" of what cost-no-object techos seek. The logic being the last 5-8% costs about $2,000 per 1%...;p-)

Some DACs are fine with a $40 streamer as they ignore jitter.

My $0.02...:

1. Get a $300-$500 streamer that can do both AirPlay and Bluetooth and UPnP.
2. Get a $750 - $1500 DAC that sonically matches your system.
3. Get a good digital cable.

If you want to go larger, then open your wallet wider.
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