2. digital
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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

 

rbschauman

Showing 1 response by vthokie83

vthokie83
674 posts
 

As many have already suggested, Quobuz is my preferred service.

Also as many have suggested, you will have to dump the Mac as a streamer. Even an entry level BlueSound Node 130 (newest version) will provide a great interface and superior sound quality. Add a quality linear power supply and excellent USB cable and you are set as a starter package. I'm still using this package (with a Denafrips IRIS DDC outputting I2S to Denafrips Pontus II DAC) until I can save up for an Aurender N200 at $6,300

BlueSound Node 130 (latest version) $600

LHY BlueSound Node 130 Linear Power Supply kit $279

High quality USB cable (Supra Excalibur USB cable) eBay seller Zendada is preferred distributor $140

Total $1,019 for a terrific starter steaming setup with a great interface. And you can compare the internal DAC of the Node 130 to your DAC and see what differences you see. I personally use a Denafrips Pontus II, for about $1,850

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