2. digital
  3. 179039-96

Streamer creates a Wow experience

I started streaming by running USB from my iPad to my DAC using Qobuz, and I thought it sounded pretty good and was happy.  Then I compared this to playing CDs and much to my dismay I slightly preferred the CDs.  This was a depressing moment.  So I reached out to you guys and several of you assured me if I got a dedicated streamer it’d be much better, and while I always believed a streamer is important and can make a difference I still found myself a little skeptical how much improvement there would be. 

So I decided to heed the advice here and after some research got an iFi Zen Stream with their upgraded power supply.  After getting the Zen linked to my WiFi and using mconnectHD to be able to stream Qobuz through the iFi — Holy Crap!!!  I expected some improvement but I was not prepared for the huge leap in sound quality I was hearing.  Every aspect of sound improved markedly and my jaw was on the floor.

Anyway, you guys were so right in assuring me a streamer would make all the difference.  And this is through my HeadFi rig and can’t wait to hear what this sounds like on the big rig.  Thanks for your helpful advice and getting me through this.  I’m one shocked and very happy camper.

 

soix

Showing 4 responses by charles1dad

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@jjss49 

Correct. I’d simply advise @soix to try a good quality LPS and make his own determination.

Charles 

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@soix 

BTW please ignore silly comment that a LPS for digital audio is snake oil. Utter nonsense. Best wishes.

Charles

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@soix 

Thanks, I do not doubt that you are enjoying much happiness with your streaming. I just know there’s considerably better CD transport sound than a stock Oppo. Nonetheless you’ve found a terrific solution for your needs and system.👍

Charles

charles1dad's avatar
charles1dad
10,250 posts
 

@soix 

Congratulations on your new found streaming success. What CD source are you comparing it with? One of the more superficial and disingenuous comments I see presented in forms is,  “bits are bits.” In my opinion this demonstrates a lack of awareness and understanding.

There’s no doubt that improving the quality of the digital source be it a streamer or CD transport make a substantial difference in the sound quality. Those who believe that only the DAC is important are misguided. Source and DAC are both major contributors to achieving excellent digital sound.

The streamer versus CD transport back and forth has gotten a bit stale for me. There’s a hierarchy for both formats, each is capable of underwhelming sound quality to exquisite sound quality depending upon the hardware chosen. Furthermore they aren’t mutually exclusive and easily can coexist.

I can attest to the superb sound of a well selected high quality CD transport. I do not stream but I certainly acknowledge that superb sound is available with it as well.

Charles 

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