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Streamer vs computer?

I am currently using a MacBook Pro to stream Tidal Master (MQA) in my listening room. For purposes of the following question, I am only interested in SQ, not multi-room streaming options.  Would a “streamer/DAC” combo (eg Bluenote 2) give me any benefit over using my computer with an equally good (and Tidal/MQA certified) DAC? 
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Showing 2 responses by willemj

willemj
1,036 posts
 
MQA is not really high resolution. In fact, there are good indications that it is inferior or at least not better than cd red book. Look at the relevant threads.
willemj
1,036 posts
 
I do believe Redbook CD quality is the best there is when you are streaming from the internet. I am not convinced MQA is an improvement (see the relevant threads, and the work done by Benchmark and Archimago). At some time in the future we may see real higher resolutions such as 24/48 or even 24/96 rather than the fake MQA, but I am not convinced these will sound better than Red Book (but I remain open for good research).
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