I downloaded a redbook CD and XRCD to the hard drive and they sound significanlty better (better imaging and details) than playing those same tracks from a CD player (Meitner MA-2, Audio Research CD9, McIntosh MCD1100). Comparing between downloading vs. streaming, hard to judge which one is better, a toss up.
Downloads Versus Streaming
Hi Again,
I’ve been streaming Qobuz through my Bryston Pi to my Ayre QB9 Twenty. Despite being told that streaming quality is every bit as good sounding as my local library on an external SSD, my ears tell me otherwise. Even at higher bit rates and resolutions. Yes, a better streamer and/or tweaks and upgrades would have effective results, at this stage I believe I’m better off with downloads. I’m just wondering what you folks out there have experienced regarding this matter and what you’ve done to make improvements.