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Re: streaming recommendations for newbie

Hi,

I'd like to finally enter the streaming world with my hifi system and am looking for recommendations.  I have streaming music in my car and on my computer, but I can't currently access any streaming services on my hifi system because I have tube gear and neither it nor my old backup gear have streaming capacity or a DAC (other than the CD player).  

 I guess that I need to buy both a streamer and a DAC?  I now have a pretty decent hifi system, but I want start out with modest priced streaming gear.    

Can anyone recommend a streamer & DAC, or unit that does both?  Does it make sense to put more $$ in a DAC or in a steamer?  Not sure about budget, but I'm thinking $500-1000 used for both as a starting point. Thank you.

Terry

tlh28
brottdwayne
1 posts
 

This is an interesting thread.  I currently listen to mostly vinyl.  When I do stream, I use blue tooth and the streaming that is built into my Marantz receiver .   Please tell me how a streamer like the bluesound node is better for this.  Asking because I honestly don't know or understand.  Thank you

gkelly's avatar
gkelly
102 posts
 

@anotherbob Go to Vegas and you will. A nickel bet is commonly referred to as $500. 
@brottdwayne can’t tell you if a blue sound will make any difference than your Marantz,  But I can tell you that A Innuos PULSE mini made one of the biggest upgrades to my system. This replaced my HEOS streaming from my Marantz SR5015. Getting a good quality streamer to begin with sets you on the correct path.  

2psyop's avatar
2psyop
1,503 posts
 

As many have mentioned the Bluesound is a great choice since they offer tremendous support and the software is very good. I recommend a wired Ethernet connection as many have had problems in the past with wireless (maybe they have engineered that better now). I think the Bluesound Node X with a Teddy Pardo external power supply (easy install) is very very good for the money. I have this setup and another 6 times more expensive. The Node X with internal DAC and Teddy Pardo power supply can compete!!!

Obviously one can get better sound, but you have to give something away. More money and often much less customer support.

vinylshadow
420 posts
 

I'd suggest the Node 2i with a PD Creative PSU interface upgrade and an SBooster 5V/3A Linear power supply. Best sound for $1000.

elliottbnewcombjr
5,230 posts
 
anotherbob

I want an award for guessing he meant $500. I somehow thought is was Australian slang. I see it’s a Vegas term, in any case, I guessed right! What do I get?

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