Ethernet streaming


Many high end dac’s now have built in streaming capability via Ethernet. Is this a better way to go than adding a separate streamer to feed the dac?  In my case, streaming Qobuz and using roon. Also have an Aurender dac/pre that wouldn’t be needed if dac only streaming was used. Wondering about the advantages and disadvantages of these two approaches. I’m sure this has been discussed before, but I can’t find it.

joc3021

Every function of the signal processing chain separated by individual component or “box” has advantage over sharing component or “box” way due to interference and chain ability factors.

 

"Empire Streamer DAC is a Complete Roon System packaged in one beautifully designed unit, where all the features are optimized. Just turn it on, connect to wifi or wired network, sign in to hi-res Steaming Service of your choice and enjoy the music. The network setup has been already carefully optimized for the best sound and experience: ultra low noise I7cpus have no moving parts and are powered by clean oversized linear power supplies. DAC board is 100% isolated in a “Faraday cage” with its own dual mono linear power supply and galvanic USB isolator for up to 32bit/768k and DSD512 playback with the least interference possible. No distributed system consisting of multiple boxes can match optimized Empire architecture."

 

Sounds like the Empire could beat out the sound of separates. 

https://mytek.audio/shop/empire-streamer-dac-479?category=2#attr=59

In my opinion it’s best to go with a separate DAC and streamer simply because it can sound better if you take the time to put things together correctly. 

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+1, “In my opinion it’s best to go with a separate DAC and streamer simply because it can sound better if you take the time to put things together correctly”.

Separates also give you the option to upgrade them separately.