Streamer, no DAC please?


Sorry if this topic has been beaten to a pulp...I recently upgraded the digital side of my rig, Denafrips, Pontus 15 with a Project CD Box RS2T transport...

Now I have the itch to try streaming. It pains me to invest in a high end streamer and once again pay for a DAC.

Is it possible to find a quality steamer without a DAC? Any direction is appreciated, FYI, I consider myself a luddite.

larseand

I like my Innuos Pulse Mini with upgraded LPS. This replaced my Project Streambox Ultra II. I ran the Project with the provided wall wart and it’s not bad. I’m currently using it in my headphones system. Both of my streamers are hardwired. I use a Cardas Clear usb on the Project and a Wireworld Starlight Platinum usb on the Innuos. I stream both Tidal and Qbuzz and listen to Radio Paradise and .1FM radio channels. Those particular channels sound as good as my subscription's. If you get a better streamer with a built in power supply your at $3K, but it’s another improvement. Happy Hunting , Mike B. 

At your price point, a preowned Aurender N100H will give excellent SQ.  The Conductor App works well with QoBuz and Tidal streaming services,  and makes it easy to upload and catalog your digital files.  Reliability and customer service are excellent.  If you can increase yor budget, a preowned N200 or N10 will provide better SQ and in my opinion is worth the additional spend.  A preowned Aurender is  the way to go over other new streamers/servers that retail at your price point.  

First, are you looking for a server or streamer or something that does both jobs? Have a look at the Lindemann Bridge II streamer with digital out, very nice app, you can use JPlay if you prefer that interface. Also the Melco N100 is a great server and streamer - also works with JPlay app.

Recommend  Innuos streamers.  They have several different models depending on your budget including used ones you can usually find online.  Their Sense app works well with Qobuz, which is the steaming service I use and recommend.