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Best streamer for a returning audio guy

Hello, hope you all can help. My question is what is the most reasonable streamer to try in my system to see if it works for me? 
  A little background is in order . I’m an older gentleman, who was into audio years ago. I’m currently rebuilding my system with newer technology. I have significant older components. Such as Adcom separates, ( not currently using), Yamaha reciever rxa 2000 as a preamp, Rotel amp driving center speaker and rears, crown class d driving main speakers, I have many speaker choices. Currently using Kef 105/2 as mains ( have Martin Logan’s as well) , Martin logan cinema as center, Martin Logan’s a rear surround. All interconnects and speaker wires are morrow audio. 
 I am / was old school with over 1500 vinyl album’s from years of collecting. About 100 cds. One interesting note, this rebirth of my interest in audio came with my wife giving me a turntable for Christmas several years ago. Finally joked it up and after 30 years I was hooked again!!!

  On to my question, it appears that almost everyone is now streaming their music. Ok, I understand the concept ( have Sirius in the car) . What is the best unit to try this out. Can’t break the bank, used is ok, actually preferred. Any outlet advice would be appreciated. 
  I’m working to eventually get to the level of most of you. I have visited my local real hi fi store and have heard the”great” components and eventually I’ll get there. Thanks, and looking forward to your replies. Twodogs112.

128x128twodogs112
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
902 posts
 

The Bluesound is always a solid starting point. But here is an alternative that is even cheaper way to dip your toe in the streaming waters (pun intended). Over on www.usaudiomart.com there is a SONOS Gen 1 Connect that has been modified by Wyred4Sound for digital out. Sonos still offers the Gen1 controller app. These are solid units and sound purdy good. I have had one for many years and the thing has been rock solid. You could go Coax from the Connect to the Digital in on the Yamaha pre. The price on the Connect is $200 but its been over there for several months and I bet they would entertain a little less. I still use my Sonos W4S ZP90 as a ROON endpoint on a secondary system and it works great. Then you can explore you upgrade path while have a rock bottom startup cost.

 

Darko Review from years ago. 

 

daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
521 posts
 

I was in a similar situation when I  retired and yes it was overwhelming.   Hadn't kept up for 20 years. bought a Node 2i.  The interface is the easiest to use.  I didn't like Roon.  And you pay for it.

I put a better power supply in it.  $132.  That really helped sound.

WiFi sounds better than Bluetooth.   I  ran a CAT 6 cable from router to node2i.  I use Amazon music 8.99 a month.  Tried Qbuz but couldn't hear any difference. 

Since you are a musician you will love discovering new and old music.  70MM songs to choose from.

Once you get this up and going then you may find it good enough.  I  think it would be difficult to have home theater and 2 channel all in one, especially if you start buying  amp and preamp., but I  haven't tried it.

vanson1
126 posts
 

All these suggestions will work.  Up to you to decide what to buy as it's your choice and money. 

 

I think you will love streaming. Mostly because you will have millions of songs at your fingertips. 

 

Best part is that you can find a song that you like and then have the service create a playlist for you. 

 

After all it's about enjoying the music,  not agonizing about your system. 

larry5729's avatar
larry5729
1,002 posts
 

BlueSound Node 2i.  I would also subscribe to Tidal.

macg19
682 posts
 

What @larry5729 said. I’d start with the free plan then go to Hi-Fi @ $9.99 mth. Jury is still deliberating on whether the HiFi PLUS Tidal (with MQA) is worth the extra $10.

I’ve A/B tested the $600 BlueSound w/Tidal against ~$10K worth of analogue gear and it is remarkably good. So much so that I have zero desire to ever upgrade the Streamer (barring a large win-fall).

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