Streaming Services

Just realized I did not put the link in to the ROON overview.   Again, that classical overview starts around the 4:30 mark.

$.02 on some aspects of the discussion:

I’m of the opinion that a streamer should be for delivery only, as the DAC aspect is best served by my system’s flavor (so there’s no reason to pay for a DAC built into a streamer; the streamer’s purpose is to deliver the digital data accurately).

[Every system has its own sound - and listener(s) - of course. In my system I do use a separate DAC connected to a streamer-only device (Ifi Zen Streamer) only because my preamp has a standard limit of 24/96 - but everything delivered to its analog inputs is then treated to 24/192 translation out to active speakers, hence the sonic characteristics can be shaped the way I’d like it.]

Roon is a useful tool for streaming organization and finding new music, but I just started an Audirvana trial; so far I’m definitely sure that it blows Roon away re: database features (35 years’ experience in software design and programming, and I’m often surprised by programs like Roon which are so expensive relative to the level/features of the database). If Roon and Audirvana can’t be used together, I might just put Roon on the shelf (after requesting they become more Audirvana-like) for a while.

Re: the OP direction, if your DAC is to your liking, don’t spend needless $$ on something with a DAC. Many modern streamers have USB outputs (the Ifi among them) and that’s all you need; in fact, the USB outputs will allow the full range of input (currently) to your DAC (whereas everything other than I2S input will be limited to less).

Re: MQA. I currently don’t use it much (because there’s not much of it on Qobuz), but I’ve tried it with no problems - but in MQA I do prefer the "Studio" quality, and maybe critics don’t take notice of the quality levels before panning it (or maybe they reduce it all to measurements; I’m not one who tends to rely solely on numbers for sonic enjoyment). Re: those who claim there’s no need to care about bandwidth availability, I’d comment that they belong to an elite group - and for the world as a whole that’s not the case.

Re: the Node 130. I own it and stopped using it (partly because its analog output stinks unless you mod it and partly because of its lousy Windows interface (if you’re using it via wifi, then you’re subject to wifi issues/limitations) - but I haven’t yet sold it, so if you’re truly interested, you're welcome to PM me.

Back to the beginning, the Ifi streamer is one of the easiest solutions to try, and it seems as though it would fit well into your system (IIRC Ifi has a 30-day return policy); I’d suggest that you use something like Audirvana or Roon as the front end - it will make life easier. Best of luck with whatever you choose.

@tcotruvo I think it depends on one's preference, but I find Qobuz is more consistent and natural sounding versus MQA. That said, certain songs on MQA sound fantastic. I have both for that reason and will continue to. For the reasons I mentioned though, I am on Qobuz 99% of my regular listening.

Tidal has an advantage in a better algorithm for suggestions and similar music to stuff you've added as a favorite. 

Just pick any that have lossless (or close) compression. I use Amazon Music HD, either cast through my Amazon Echo, or ripped CDs through MusicBee from my laptop to my preamp. Bits are bits (coming from a former software engineer).

The Rose rs150b has an internal Dac so just plug in the internet to the back and you can stream many of your streaming services (just log in). More importantly, through Roseradio you can stream hundreds of high quality internet stations. You can add stations to your favorites depending on your taste. Mine is Jazz vocals and I have maybe 20 in my favorites. To me this is the only way to go.