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What is the function/pupose of music plyr/streamer

Sorry guys another neophyte here with a simple question.
I am going to set up a Computer sourced link into my audio system (sooner or later, once I figure this out).
I "think" I have the basics of the chain down; Computer, Bridge/Converter, DAC, Amp. However I don't understand what advantage a music player/streamer would afford me.(I will be using a MAC and using mostly Apple Lossless files). So this invites 3 questions for me.
1. Why do I or would I need a Music player or Music Streamer? (they are the same, right?)
2. When used, where should it go in the chain?
3. While these devices often list support for many different kinds of audio files, almost none actually say they support Apple lossless, is this because they don't or they just don't want to spell it out?
Thanks for your patience with some of us new/old (double jeopardy) guys.
But any info would be much appreciated.
246810
77jovian
385 posts
 
Is the Squeezebox Touch 24/96 limit confined to the internal DAC (so that a 24/192 DAC could take the Touch signal at 24/192) or is it a limit on the ability to stream?
mapman's avatar
mapman
21,865 posts
 
My understanding is 24/96 is the devices inherent streaming limit, but I could be wrong.

That's pretty good for the <$300 cost these days.
246810 OP
11 posts
 
OK Great answers.
Russe- I guess I didn't realize for some reason the player/streamer had a DAC.
Larry- If I'm reading your system right, you dont have a player/streamer, right?
Loomis- I think FLAC and Apple Lossless are not the same. You confirm my suspicion that the player is for managerial duties.
Steve- Is it just Airplay you have an issue with or the whole idea of storing and playing using apple lossless? And
I appreciate the streaming tutorial.
Mapman- You bring up a function for the player aside from its managerial duties. Does not the chain of Bridge/Converter to DAC to AMP isolate the computer in the same respect?

And yes I was afraid I'd hear the old refrain "if it doesn't say so, don't assume it does". I guess I'm hoping the manufacturers were to hung up on space to spell it out
because I know Apple won't recognize any of the acronyms, you know being apple and all.

Thanks this is helping me a lot.
246810 OP
11 posts
 
Oh I should tell you guys my system so you know where I'm coming from.
Are you sitting down; I think you should be sitting.
Kenwood KR7600 Receiver
Sony PS-T3 Turntable
JBL L100 Speakers
Purchased in 75/76
(never gave up buying albums)
Still works like a champ, but I'm actually thinking of buying some new gear, I just don't want to rush into anything.
audioengr
3,282 posts
 
"Steve- Is it just Airplay you have an issue with or the whole idea of storing and playing using apple lossless?"

Airplay is flawed and ALAC is also flawed IMO.

It's time you updated that system of yours. Throw all of that stuff away or give it away if you can. I have not had this kind of stuff since college, and I graduated in 1976. There is plenty of great chinese-built used equipment on Audiogon for cheap.

I would think "keep it simple". No preamp, no CD player. Just a computer, preferably a Mac Mini, a good USB DAC and some monoblock amps. Then get some decent speakers like used Maggies, Vandersteens etc..

Steve N.
Empirical Audio
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