Gumby vs Yggy

But seriously, shouldn't a good computer with good software be a "good" source.

Yes, it should. Many here on the forum though will site the fact that it isn't necessarily "good enough". However, I personally am in the camp of "relying" upon the Schiit DAC (Gungnir or Yggdrasil) to essentially "do their job correctly" and, therefore, negate the need for an optimized source. In fact those Schiit DACs have an indicator referred to as the "buy better gear" light. If it's off during playback, what's the issue?

yeah plus I was pretty stoked about buying the Gumby with the gen5 usb card, was supposed to negate the need for any intermediate device.

Sonore ultraRendu, microRendu, or sMS-200, sMS-200 Ultra will almost certainly sound better than a good computer.

Thanks for all the great suggestions, I appreciate the feedback. Well the Gumby is back in the system, probably to stay. There is just something about the sound that I can't put my finger on....smoothness...air...less fatigue?? I find myself missing it when the Arcam is back in the system. Maybe I'm just nuts lol.

I'm still very much open to the idea of a dedicated streamer, kinda surprised that there really aren't a lot of options. Aurender is out of my $$ comfort zone, Auralic is doable, surprised they discontinued the Mini. Bluesound Node 2? I very much prefer something with built in wifi.

Anyway, with the gen5 usb board on the Gumby, I figure my MacBook/Audirvana should be fine for now. I really want to try a tube amp next. Got my eye on a Primaluna Prologue 5 which should be a very nice match for my modest system. 

There is just something about the sound that I can’t put my finger on....smoothness...air...less fatigue??

Right. I’ve found myself using the word more "authentic" sounding, albeit I have the Yggy. :)