Streamer suggestions with both wireless and wired connections


There are necessary components in our systems like speakers and amplifiers,  which are to be bought.  At the same time,  since one can  use a computer to stream 0s and 1s, is it justified to invert 5k or > on a streamer?

I am using a Blue sound Nide 2i streamer (not as a dac though) for already several years, sometimes I use my computer and actually I note no essential difference in sound quality. Some of you claim a night and day difference between SQ of different streamers. So I want to find out if I am really streaming constantly at night. I have no convenient Ethernet connection close to my audio system, besides would like to compare the defferences in SQ with wireless and wired connections.

Please help to create daylight in my streaming environment

 

128x128niodari

Showing 1 response by oddiofyl

Ghdprentice is one of a handful of people here that I almost always agree with regarding an upgrade path.  I use his formula or rational, if it does not cost 2 to 3 times more that what you are replace, it's probably not an upgrade.  In this hobby there is nothing worse, or a greater waste of money than a lateral move.  Happens all the time in this hobby 

It also has a lot to do with your existing components.   Can they fully exploit the new streamer ?   Is the new component a good fit ?  Does other gear need upgrading too?   Only you can decide if pulling the trigger on something is worth the money.  

I have a Bluesound Vault 2i....  a great machine that has served me well.   In my search for it's replacement I got a deal on an Aurender that I could not refuse.    I did a cash and trade deal to be able to afford a N200 but it was well worth it.  I still use the Vault , it still sounds good and for the price it's hard to beat but it's no Aurender.   It is perfect for my 2nd system ,  better suited with that level of components.  

I stream 80% lately so for me it was worth while. 

There are a ton of good streamers out there.  They are not created equal though  Aurender was one of if not the first company to build dedicated streamers.    Build quality is over the top , they sound great and have an excellent interface.   Their support is excellent 

Personally I would avoid a wireless streamer or at least choose one that is wired ether/ wifi