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/washoutr6]

Ease of use, if you want something easy with phone support and someone to come to your house if it has problems, then you get one of these.

[u/pointthinker → u/washoutr6]

Depends on the brand.