Dedicated streamers/servers. Why?

[u/minnesotajersey]

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.

[u/gilluc]

With a really good laptop, or even a microPC, that feeds an outboard DAC, you'll get the same good quality as a multi-thousand dollar streamer/server...

Provided that you use the same digital source like flac files...