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Need really simple advice. How do I use the DAC side of my ARC Ref CD-9SE to stream music?

Ok, ... I just bought an ARC Ref CD-9SE redbook CD player, which has its own built-in DAC functionality.  The CD-9 DAC does not have DSD capability.  The ARC website describes the CD-9's capability in part as follow:

The Reference CD9SE incorporates four digital inputs: USB 2.0HS, AES/EBU, RCA, and Toslink. All inputs handle 24 bit / 192k resolution. The Reference CD9SE retains the Philips PRO2R transport, still the best dedicated CD mechanism that is simply unsurpassed for compact disc playback. Benefitting from what we have learned in the development of the Reference DAC, the REF CD9 utilizes quad 24-bit DACs running in mono mode, with dual master oscillators; one for 44.1/88.2/176.4 sample rates, the other for 48/96/192kHz sample rates. Sample rate conversion is selectable for all inputs, allowing playback in native resolution or via upsampling, including compact disc and all inputs, including USB. Additionally, there is a selectable digital filter, with either fast or slow rolloff. 

I have no idea what any of the glarff quoted above means.  So, ... my simple minded understanding is that I need to sign up for a streaming service, ...  like Spotify, Tidal or something off Amazon.  The CD-9 is very close to an ethernet cable, so that is a good fact.  I assume that I will need a streamer like, Lumin or some other brand that I do not know a thing about, plus some interconnects and maybe a USB cord.  If I need a computer, ... I have a regular PC which has an Intel Core i7 CPU and a solid state hard drive.

So, ... in simple baby talk, how can I stream music from the internet into my CD-9 DAC and then into my ARC Ref 6SE linestage?  Please, please, ... keep it really simple.   

Thanks

bifwynne

Showing 7 responses by bifwynne

bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
The advice above has been very helpful.  Thank you. 

I think someone asked about the CD-9's USB input.  Here is what the ARC website says:   USB 2.0HS   

I understand that the SE version has an updated USB card.  I think the old card was a USB 2 and the new card card is a USB 3,....whatever that means.

So, what do I about the USB cable.  Just get a long cable, hook it up to the input socket of my DAC and let it hang loose until I want to stream from my PC?

If so, that seems simple enough. 
  
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Audiotroy, .... so what are 2 choices.  What about I/Cs??  What input should I use on the CD-9?  USB?? 
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Hey thanks.  I did some google searching and found the same link.  Based on what I found already, I DO have a lot to learn.   
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Thanks mahler123, .... so to get started, are you saying use my personal PC, which uses a Windows 10 operating system?  Then sign-up for Tidal or Spotify on my PC.  Then hook up my PC to one of the digital DAC inputs on my CD-9 using some type of I/C (which one??).  And then hook up one of the DAC outputs (presumably an XLR/BAL I/C) directly into my linestage pre. 

Is that a good way to get started? At least to get a taste of what streaming is all about.     
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Thanks guys.  I like the idea of starting with my PC.  I will check with ARC to see if I can use a regular USB connector from my PC to the CD-9 DAC.  If so, that may be a good way to dip my toe into the streaming waters. 

I am reluctant to drop big bucks on a streamer and associated gizmos until I understand what streaming is about. 

Btw, the CD-9 has a nice redbook CD function.  The CD-9 sounds a bit better than my old ARC CD-8. More resolution and better sound stage.  Very similar ARC house sound though.

Btw, btw, ... the CD-9 can upstream native redbook sampling of 44.1kHz to 176.4kHz. Upstream sampling changes the presentation, ... seems brighter and more detailed.  Not sure I like it better than native redbook sampling.  Any comments in digital-land about the pros and cons of upstreaming the sampling rate? 

Thanks again
    
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 
Thanks Jetter.  I just downloaded the ARC driver.  Next a USB cable, and then almost in business.

I'll check out Amazon for streaming options.  Hopefully Amazon can stream at least redbook quality music.

I know there are a "bazilion" A'gon threads running about streaming services.  The two most popular services that come to mind are Spotify and Tidal. 

Which of the two services offers the highest quality data transmission?
  
bifwynne OP
2,206 posts
 

@cal3713 

Per Qobuz webpage, Studio quality streaming is offered -- (FLAC 24-Bit up to 192 kHz).  Is 24 bit/192kHz look SACD quality?

Tidal is more complicated.  Three levels of service:  Standard; HiFi (1411kbps - lossless FLAC); and Master (2304 - 9216kbps).    

What levels of streaming can the CD-9 handle?  And can I run all of this through my PC to the CD-9 via a USB cable?  

I assume at some point, I will want to get a streamer and maybe storage capability, but for now, I want to start with my PC if possible.

Thanks again.
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