Newbie Looking for Advice on Streaming Music


Hello Audiogon world.

I am new to this hobby but I think it will suit me well as it looks like it is an endless pursuit of perfection of sound without ever really getting there.  I love the endless possibilities, difference in thought, technology driven aspect mixed with old school art.

I am in the process of building my first 2 channel set up and recently picked up a Primaluna Dialogue HP and a pair of Sonus Faber Chameleons for starters.

Im looking to stream music from Tidal to the new equipment as simple as possible without compromising sound as much as I possibly can (budget permitting of course)

I have been doing some research and I must say this part of the equation is rather confusing with a lot of technical speak that gets brought into the discussion which is a bit overwhelming for a newbie trying to soak it all in.

Do I need to purchase a high quality DAC?
Can I just buy a streaming box like the Paradigm PW Link or Def Tech W Adapt and hook it into the Primaluna?
Do I go with the Halide Design DAC HD D/A Converter from computer straight into Primaluna?
I also read about the wyred4sound modified Sonos Connect.  Does that plus into a DAC or straight into Amp?

Apologies for all the newbie questions.  I did try searching and doing some research but found myself getting confused.  If someone could help me clear up what I will need that will set me on the path to researching the best value for my budget for each component I will need to accomplish my goals of streaming my music from Tidal.

Thanks in advance.  I think this will be a fun hobby!

Don

donblackie

Showing 1 response by snbeall

I may have missed it somewhere along the way here, but a significant consideration with respect to the Bluesound that has not been touched upon is MQA compatibility. Streaming Tidal MQA is a real treat. If you want a single box solution with VERY good sound, the Bluesound PowerNode 2 is a streamer, MQA compatible DAC, and amplifier all in one. Amplifier is high quality (NAD). The Node2 has the same MQA compatibility BTW. The Powernode 2 has a subwoofer out (and internal fixed 80hz crossover you can turn on or off). I use it with some nice Monitor Audio Gold 50's and a Velodyne compact sub to VERY good effect. Don't know how you can be up and running MQA with quality amplification any easier or cheaper - while you research separates. You may decide they aren't necessary...