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.
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. |
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). |
Since HT has been mentioned a couple of times, with regard to Sound Quality, here's a solution. Build your quality 2-channel setup, using either an integrated amp, or seperate amp/pre-amp. If the integrated amp, or separate pre-amp has the HT bypass/processor loop output, you can simply add all of the HT functionality by connecting an HT receiver's front L&R pre-outs to the HT bypass inputs of the integrated amp/pre-amp. Now you have a dedicated 2-channel system without any compromising HT hardware in the mix. When you want to play HT, turn on both the 2-channel system and HT receiver, select the appropriate inputs, and off with go with multi-channel HT.
This type of combo system works like a champ. There is no compromise with the 2-channel sound quality. There may be a slight compromise to HT sound quality performance, based on the HT hardware you use, but you likely won't notice it, or hear a difference. I don't currently have this type of combo system set up, but I have had it on multiple occasions in the past. If I recall correctly, @erik_squires is currently using this type of combo 2-channel/HT setup. |
