2. digital
  3. 155396-2693

Fairly new to streaming. Where to start?

$2k & under budget

Aralic Vega has streamer  and DAC. May be the easiest start?
Then there is Schiit...Yiggy or Gumby...which streamer?
Ladder NOS dac? Or Chip? I'm old. maybe I'll like the old school DAC?
Then there is  Benchmark DAC 3...I think it has streamer?
Then
Exasound E32
Audio Mirror?
Metrum
MHDT Orchid
Border Patrol?
Musical Paradise?
Whats a newbie to do? I am a classic rock fan with lots of FLAC & M4a files. I like detail & PRaT. Love a good bass line. I also play some 70's jazz. I have a Theta Miles CD player from the 1900's & play a lot of vinyl too. But I need to come into the 21st century.  Besides, I will probably become tired of the vinyl ritual and work at some point as I get older. I think I have done enough homework to be somewhat confused. Maybe the biggest question in light of how fast digital changes is the question of streamer with DAC or separate Streamer and DAC. One other question is the streamer & bridge the same thing? OK Thanks!! 
artemus_5

Showing 1 response by ian_of_glos

ian_of_glos
9 posts
 

Rather than recommending specific hardware components, would someone be willing to answer a few basic questions first? The questions I had in mind are:

1) what are the advantages of streaming when compared to CDs, vinyl and digital downloads? Are there any disadvantages?

2) is it possible to use streaming services without the need for a computer, tablet or mobile phone?

3) how does the quality of hi res streaming services such as Qobuz compare with other hi res options such as SACD?

4) What are the basic components needed to connect a streaming service to an existing hifi system? Please note that I am not looking for brands - just a list of the components I will need in order to listen to streamed music through my existing hifi.

Thank you.

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