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

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. 

your best bet is to upgrade your nad to a naim uniti star this is a far better amplifier then your nad and it has a fantastic dac and streamer built in

 

 

Dave and Troy

audio intellect NJ

streaming experts