I use a phone and a dedicated streamer. Six of one half dozen the other. Whatever works best for you will sound fine. DACs can make a big difference ( I use external DACs always into my system) but even the DACs in newer smartphones are pretty good at least into a suited pair of easy to drive headphones, if running without a headphone amp.
Music streamer device vs laptop/phone?
I stream Tidal hifi through my laptop/iPhone into a Parasound Halo integrated via USB. The dac in the parasound sounds great to me. I see expensive music streamer devices and wonder if they would provide any actual audible sound quality improvement over what I’m using already? I don’t care about the user interface convenience, multi use applications, stylish looks, etc. just sound quality. I strictly stream Tidal for 2 channel home stereo listening and don’t mind being “tethered” to my phone or laptop to select music. I’m in the dark about music streaming devices. Why are some so expensive? For my purposes, would one bring any actual audible improvement vs me streaming from phone to the Parasound’s DAC? I’m thinking it wouldn’t, but any insight/advice is appreciated. Thanks!