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Nomenclature for streaming

In earlier analog forms, the nomenclature of the components are relatively set. I know that some manufacturers use the term "Control" amplifier, and most use "Preamplifier." But for the most part, I know what a phono preamplifier, a preamplifier, a tuner, an integrated amplifier, a receiver, etc., etc.,  is and does.

But the streaming terminology seems less set. In some cases, it seems that we go from a Server, to a Player, to a Converter, and then out to our system. Some companies call the "Player" the "Renderer." Some companies call the program that organizes and allows us to interface with the music, such as Roon or Audirvana, as the Music Player. 

 

What is the equivalent to a receiver called in the streaming world?  A component that has the Server, Player and Converter (DAC) all in one box? Aurender calls the the N 200 a "Streamer/Music Server."  has the Server and Player parts, but not the DAC. Wiim has all-in-one boxes that combine a complete streaming set up with analog preamp and amp. I'm sure others have that too. 

Does my brain just scramble things that are pretty clear to everyone else? I'm okay in my own system, - I know what does what, and what the manufacturer calls them -  but when I try to advise my friends and families on what they need to get for a streaming service, my command of names falls apart a little. 

 

Does anyone think this is clear, and can tell me what universal terms to use?

 

Thanks,

 

David

dtorc

Showing 1 response by dtorc

dtorc OP
55 posts
 

Thanks for trying - it's not you, it's me. . While it is likely that I am having a bit of a block in my comprehension (that can happen to me at times), I still think we are spitballing some language. I was looking at a ad for HiFi Rose today, and they are selling what they call a "Network Transport." Which seems to me to be a Streamer/Player but no DAC. 

 

My own set up is a Small Green Computer "SonicTransporter." My unit includes  ripping ability plus internal storage, and is called a Music Server. But they sell other products that do not have ripping or storage, and they call those a Music Server, too. 

 

I also have a Sonore Optical Rendu, which they call a Music Player. Or a Renderer (thus the "Rendu," I guess). And of course I have a DAC. Like SNS, I have three boxes (plus auxiliary boxes like power supplies and optical converters). But then I read about a Network Transport, and have to try to figure out which of the Big Three (Server, Player, Converter) does it contain. I wish we had simpler language for it. And I bet we will, in the future, as this segment matures. 

 

 

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