Tidal FLAC vs. Qobuz
Does the recent change by Tidal, from MQA to FLAC make Tidal the better choice for streaming? Or, since Tidal only seems to offer FLAC on its own app and not the BluOS defeat the purpose since you need to transmit by Bluetooth instead of ethernet?
Currently, I stream from Tidal over direct ethernet cable to a Bluesound Vault streamer, to a McIntosh amp and Revel speakers. I have a trial membership to Qobuz but I find Tidal has a much better catalog. Since Tidal added Flac I thought it would be the obvious choice moving forward, but isn't the point of FLAC defeated since you need to send wirelessly from the Tidal app over Bluetooth?
“I know that you can listen to Qobuz and Tidal through the BluOS app” Correct and this is the best way to stream music from any of the embedded music services within BlueOS App. As long as you have Tidal HiFi Plus plan, you can stream up to 24-bitt/192 kHz flac files. |
Once you find a DAC you really like, upgrade to a better streamer like any of the offerings from Aurender or Innuos. As I mentioned in my first post, I used to own Vault and then upgraded to Aurender ACS100 (I cannot live without a ripper as I still buy CD’s). It’s 1000 times better than vault in terms of library management, app interface and can be used as a dedicated streamer. Or look for used ACS 10 for about $3K. You can thank me later :-) |
I really liked the BluOS app. It’s a very versatile app with plethora of options to stream. That’s one thing I missed with current App. By all means, keep the Vault and get a better DAC. As others have reported, you can also improve Vault’s performance by upgrading its power supply plus good quality SPDIF cable. As far as picking a DAC, search online and keep an eye on used market here and on USAM. I am confident you can find something within your budget and to your liking. It’s a bit of work but well worth it. Good luck! |
