Question/Help Needed: Boomer who is totally inexperienced with DACs and streamers.


Question/Help Needed: Totally inexperienced with DACs and streamers. The streaming I currently do is with an Alexa device connected to the AUX input of vintage receivers with RCA cables (I have several setups in the house).

I just bought a NAD C375BEE Integrated Amp that has a DAC module installed. It is driving Thiel CS 1.6 speakers. (I am slowly trying to go from low-fi to something a bit better) 

https://nadelectronics.com/.../c-375bee-integrated.../

https://nadelectronics.com/.../MDC-DAC-2.0-USB-Digital-to...

I want to "stream" but have no idea what is needed in a streamer to deliver really solid quality music. Is it the source? The streamer? The DAC? I do like the "voice control" I get with the Alexa devices I have.

Any/all help or advice is much appreciated!! Thanks!!  John

johnnotkathi

It looks like the BlueSound has optical and USB outs...so would I connect one of them to the corresponding input in the amp/DAC?  I guess then I control what I play via a phone or tablet?

Avoid using the optical out and use either its coax or USB, and then yes you’d use your phone or tablet with whatever streamer/app you’re using. 

Looking at this...and will check the other suggestions.  Thanks to all for taking the time to respond to my questions..... 

 

That Echo streamer doesn’t seem to support Wi-Fi if that’s important to you.

 

There is an alternative that costs less and features much of the same integration - the WiiM Pro - link. Normally it’s $149, but it looks like it’s on sale for $119. Like the Echo device, you’ll need to connect it to your NAD DAC module using an optical (TOSLINK) cable.

 

Here’s some more info - link

As  a fellow boomer I struggled mightily understanding streaming and bits and days. Go slow. I turned the corner with a dedicated streamer (innuos zen mini) connected directly to my router. Plus incorporating stand alone sacs progressively moving up the ladder.  And during times of trouble bluetooth can be a savior.