I don't doubt hardwiring makes a difference in some systems, but I run $50 Chromecast Audio pucks throughout my home, and I've noticed zero material differences when tested against wired connections in the same dac/amp/speaker chains.
My streaming is limited to ripped FLAC files (44.1hz/16bit) stored on local NAS and some Tidal, all via Roon. I am not doing any super hi-res streaming and I do have a robust wifi network, so drop-outs are not an issue.
Specifically, I found no audio difference between CCA optical out into Gustard R26 when compared with the DAC's internal streamer hardwired. And a CCA into my Ares II sounded the same as (if not better than) a hardwired Mac Mini with USB out.
WiFi Streaming Versus An Ethernet Cable Connection
Hey All,
I have a fairly new Bryston BDP 3 streamer/renderer. I haven't been all that happy with the sound of streaming on Qobuz. However may local files on my SSD sound astonishing. The router I'm using is standard for 500 GB but it's nothing special. I'm currently connected to my BDP 3 with a utilitarian 7 cat ethernet cable. Instead of buying a better modem/router and audiophile ethernet cable, I'm considering Bryston's WiFi dongle. Anybody familiar with wireless HiFi streaming? Thanks!