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Help streaming Qobuz through Macbook Pro

Okay, I’m just starting my streaming adventure and I’ve spent days down the rabbit hole. I’m using Qobuz from my iPhone to my MacBook Pro laptop, which is connected to a Mytek Liberty DAC, which is connected to my Plinius 8200 integrated amp. It took some doing but it plays and really enjoying Qobuz. My question is: how can I be sure (other than by listening) that the Qobuz high-resolution resolution files are playing at the highest resolution per Qobuz? I am using Airplay but I keep reading it doesn’t handle files higher than CD resolution. Then I also read where using an external DAC enables the files to play at up to 24/192 (or whatever the original resolution is). I’m really only interested in streaming if I can do it with high -resolution. Any insights/suggestions/clarifications to help me burrow out of this hole is appreciated. Thanks 

aheydorn
mwinkc
370 posts
 

@soix +1

gdaddy1
142 posts
 

I use Audirvana downloaded on a laptop, which bypasses the internals of the laptop using Qobuz. Out USB to a DAC.

Audirvana then has an app downloaded to a tablet or a phone that is a visual remote control for the music. Works perfectly. 

kerrybh
166 posts
 

Ditto on the blue sound node suggestion.
for not a lot of money, you can get much better performance and go from there.

buellrider97
410 posts
 

Now that you’ve received advice which is excellent,  may I make  some additional suggestions. Most of us went this route of using a laptop either Mac or Windows and learned to squeeze out all the performance we could. In doing so consider your cable , a USB allows the DAC to utilize its clock Vs a coax. Even with diminishing return, higher level USB cables will provide better SQ. Try buying from a source that offers free trials and free returns on a cable purchase. Also sometimes USB isolation will improve sound quantity, but not always. Considering where you are, a Bluesound Node would give you the most bang for your dollar and leave you room to build on. Chers , Mike B. 

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