The real question seems to be whether a new streamer platform can offer improved sound. Others have said it here, but just agreeing that 'yes' you can improve your sound by upgrading your streamer. I have been experimenting with standalone streamers this year and keeping everything else the same (i.e. DAC, etc.) there are noticeable differences between streamers.
Is it worth it to add a music server just for FLAC files?
Hopefully someone can help with my question.
My current system is a Krell Digital Vanguard Integrated Amplifier and Wilson Cub Series 2 speakers. The Krell has a USB input that I have connected to an external hard drive that contains all of my FLAC files. I control what is playing with the mconnect app on my phone and can stream from Qobuz/Tidal/Spotify if I need to. It all works fine and sounds great to my ears.
My question is other than some GUI navigation improvements what would be gained if I ran my FLAC files through a music/network server (Aurender, etc) before inputting to the Krell? My intention at the moment is to continue using the DAC in the Krell. Not interested in Roon.
What would a music/network server add in my situation?
I know the real experiment would be to get a music server and let my ears tell me, but just trying to think this through right now.
My current system is a Krell Digital Vanguard Integrated Amplifier and Wilson Cub Series 2 speakers. The Krell has a USB input that I have connected to an external hard drive that contains all of my FLAC files. I control what is playing with the mconnect app on my phone and can stream from Qobuz/Tidal/Spotify if I need to. It all works fine and sounds great to my ears.
My question is other than some GUI navigation improvements what would be gained if I ran my FLAC files through a music/network server (Aurender, etc) before inputting to the Krell? My intention at the moment is to continue using the DAC in the Krell. Not interested in Roon.
What would a music/network server add in my situation?
I know the real experiment would be to get a music server and let my ears tell me, but just trying to think this through right now.