Streaming Audio Questions


I've recently started back into the whole stereo game after many years. I am interested in getting into streaming audio to my stereo and have questions I hope to get help with. Is it better to get a streaming system like the Bluesound Node going into my system or is a decent quality DAC from my laptop the way to go? I first heard a Sonos player through some darn good gear at a stereo shop and was underwhelmed with the sound quality. I read on the internet about the hi- res playback of the Bluesound and wonder if that is a good stand alone unit or if a DAC from my laptop would be as good or better than the Bluesound? Are there other hi-res streamers on the market? Is Tidal the only hi- res streaming site? Anyways, a bunch of noob questions I'm sure but I really need some guidance. Opinions would be appreciated.
bhans

Showing 3 responses by jl35

In my main system I use a Wyred4Sound modified Sonos into a great DAC and in bedroom a standard Sonos into a Peachtree Dac itx and am very happy with both. A standard Sonos can be underwhelming, but I did the upgrades because they have a great user interface...
The Bluesound is a very good unit and value, but the Sonos with Steve's products or the Wyred4 mods with a good Dac will sound much better. I would think you could also use these mods with the Bluesound. Depends on the sound quality you want and your budget.
Spotify and Amazon are very low quality sound sources...not worth reclocking or modding...Tidal is worth it