Nothing wrong with using your Macbook into a DAC for streaming. It’s the same raw signal coming into the device and then going out to the DAC, and the DAC becomes the important part. The Macbook is kind of irrelevant. I stream mainly from my iPad into a DAC and that is my favorite way to use Amazon HD audio. I’m still searching for a separate streaming component for my main system, and taking input from these forums. I’m not going to pay for multiple services, and unless Amazon shows quality issues with the audio it’s a good fit for us. My main issue with the devices out there is that it’s rare to find one that not only has good streaming services, but can also store and play local files. Tough to beat the BluOS system, (BlueSound devices) but the Node needs a decent DAC, and the devices from other brands such as NAD do not have all the functionality I want. Not going to spend more than $5k for a device that "should" be better than my iPad and DAC combo, especially when most of those devices are missing one function or another. Frustrating.
Streaming Services
Hello, Folks -
In an attempt to (somewhat) get with the times, I am incorporating streaming as a source in my audio system.
In my research I’ve seen that sound quality varies among the providers.
I’m looking for a provider suggestion. A service that you feel has high sound quality.
For the most part this would be for classical music. Some classic rock and jazz would be a plus.
I’m a fuddy duddy with my equipment and am not looking to change anything out. What I have:
Conrad Johnson HD3 USB DAC
Conrad Johnson Premier 16LS Preamp
Conrad Johnson Premier 12 Mono Block Power Amps
Vandersteen Quattro Loudspeakers
PGS interconnects
MacBook Pro
Any suggestions/recommendations would be greatly appreciated!
Thank you very much for reading my post.
Regards,
Randy