From my perspective it’s the compression. I rarely listen to RP but prefer it to Sirius which sounds worst. On the other hand some channels like Naim Jazz/Classical sound really good. There are occasions when things go in the direction of those crappy podcasts. Not sure how to fix that with a change in gear when it’s likely the channel that is at the root of the problem.
Why Streaming Service Sounds ‘Flat’ vs Tune In /Local FM /Radio Paradise
I use a Bluesound Node, first or second gen I believe.
I use the S/PDIF output feeding my Esoteric K-07X CD/DAC using it as a DAC.
I find that CD’s, most things using Tune In, and local FM listening sound better than streaming either Tidal or Qobuz.
For the life of me, I can’t figure why that might be, since all are using the K-07X internal DAC. I can understand the CD, as it’s internal, with no S/PDIF cable to possibly muck things up. FWIW, I’m using the Illuminati/Kimber D-60 as my digital cable.
Any thoughts appreciated.