Streaming: WiFi or wired??

Many wireless access points and routers conforming to IEEE 801.11ac are available these days which can support data rates approaching and even exceeding the 1000 mbps rate of typical modern Ethernet links. For those speeds to be realized, of course, the receiving device must also support one of the higher speeds specified by 801.11ac.

And as Kijanki indicated such high speeds serve no purpose when it comes to audio.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE_802.11ac#Advertised_Speeds

A few examples among many that could be cited, the first two at moderate prices, and the third being expensive while providing a theoretical maximum of 5200 mbps!

https://www.newegg.com/ubiquiti-uap-ac-lr-us/p/0XM-0013-00050?&quicklink=true

https://www.newegg.com/netgear-r6300v2/p/0E6-0023-00055?&quicklink=true

https://www.newegg.com/cisco-air-ap3802e-b-k9/p/0ED-0008-003W8

Regards,
-- Al

Wifi is more than adequately fast for even the highest sampled digital music, unless you have an ancient AP router older than about 6 years.

MartinLogan has an incredible deal on their Forte Amplifier/Streamer.  $249.99 via their website.  Nice interim solution before you move up to your ultimate unit.

In my opinion:

Wired vs. wireless is just a matter of convenience and network connectivity and not SQ.  My Netgear router/wap is a nice strong solid connection to my streaming Macbook.  I do have the Netgear plugged into an Isotek power strip just because I could so that might help with the electrical stuff.

As far a a streamer, I had an Altair but went back to the Macbook, again for its convenience and flexibility.  I use the Toslink to connect the Mac to the Dac so they are electrically decoupled.

I stream Spotify but bitperfect since I use Amarra SQ+ and I get to play around with its EQ and audio conditioning filters.  It is pretty wild to see how much garbage the AC filters out.  It sounds like computerized garble.

There's the rub. What worked yesterday doesn't work today. Technology outstripping software and hardware. Makes one want to hide and not go outside. Wait a minute...