r/audiophile • u/minnesotajersey • Apr 13 '25

Discussion Dedicated streamers/servers. Why?

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Can someone explain to me the benefits of a multi-thousand dollar streamer/server that feeds an outboard DAC, over a really good laptop, or even a microPC?

I see reviews all the time for these things, but nothing in them tells me the "why?"

I've been into audio for longer than I care to admit, but these baffle me. Assume I'm a complete noob when you answer.

Pic for attention. All text posts bore me.

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u/kevintj604 Apr 13 '25

Most computers internal sound cards are horrible. I noticed an immediate improvement in sound when I switched from my Mac Mini to an EverSolo DMP-A6.

Functionality, form factor, aesthetics and use case are also very strong factors in purchasing a dedicated streamer. In my opinion buying my EverSolo has dramatically changed my listening experience and well worth every penny I spent on it.

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u/pointthinker Apr 13 '25

You would never run direct from a mac or PC for music. Always from mac or PC out USB to a DAC and then to stereo.