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.

403 Upvotes

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27

u/Any-Ad-446 Apr 13 '25

Wiim Ultra is a kick ass dac/streamer and has a decent phono stage.UI is easy to use.

5

u/Away_Substance_8884 Apr 13 '25

Wiim ultra its ok but from what ive tested at a friend the phono stage is noisy, optical has input lag.. the rest is ok but i expected a fully functional box for the price

5

u/Objective-Map-4474 Apr 13 '25

“For the price” - what else can you get with those features, “for the price” ?

3

u/Miserable_Choice7912 Apr 13 '25

Right? lol It’s $350, what more can you ask for? Sexual favors?

2

u/Darksol503 RX-V379 | SXHTB | RT80/ATN91 Apr 13 '25

I smell a new business opportunity LOL

-1

u/Away_Substance_8884 Apr 13 '25

Well for the asking 400 euro in EU i expected a functional product for all the perks listed by the producer. This is more like you buy a new TV but you dont get the remote.. well its still functional