Would I benefit from a dedicated streamer?


Currently, I'm streaming directly from a Roon Nucleus to the Holo May KTE DAC.  Would there be any sonic benefit from adding a streamer to the chain?  Or any benefit at all?  For reference, I have narrowed my choices down to these three, probably in this order:

Auralic G2.1
Lumin U1
Innos ZENith Mk3

I liken this to the discussion about adding a preamp to the chain, when your DAC has a volume control.  I'm in the camp for adding the preamp.  To me, it sounds better.  Thanks for your help.
kcpellethead

Showing 3 responses by andrewkelley

I just replaced my mac mini > Metrum ambre setup with a wolf 🐺 audio Luna R. Its tremendous. I can finally use all the functionality of my DAC8DSD. And the fidelity is insane.  
I should mention I auditioned the U1, and an Aurander w something... they cost Waaaaaay more the luna and cant even touch it. 
 

@arafiq the wolf server does not need anything but a keyboard, a mouse and a nice usb audio cable. If someone is looking to stream dsd they need the usb anyway so i dont count that in the cost. 
The u1 is $6100 
the used aurender was 16g 

As far as sound quality.... the stage is incredible. You can mentally zoom in on the individual performers just like at a real concert.  The detail is staggering, and ill say i have improved dynamics, air, and tonal accuracy. 
I grew up in a studio and have been critical about sound my whole life. The op asked for opinions... i just went through the same thing as the op and this is where i landed. Take it or leave it. 



@kcpellethread 
bought the Luna R pure digital. I went with the titan processor. And I upgraded the sata cables. It is the roon server and streamer in one. i also does jriver, plays Netflix and everything else a computer does. But The thing has stillpoints inside, and is designed for amazing sound quality. Plus its a father and  son operated business built by hand in florida. 
I use a t+a dac8 dsd