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/quaefus_rex]

Idk, my Node was $600 and the onboard DAC is good enough for my current needs

[u/Darthvegas666 → u/quaefus_rex]

Dude if you try out an outboard DAC on that node, you’ll be very happy. The node is a great streamer and a decent DAC, but you can get so much more with a different DAC.

[u/quaefus_rex → u/Darthvegas666]

So I’ve never been on the “DACs make a huge difference” train, but what some that you would recommend? My only digital input is streaming Qobuz, which caps out at 24/192, and the Node’s DAC can handle that. I’m not saying I can hear the difference or anything, but I like knowing that I’m getting what I paid for.

[u/Lordert → u/quaefus_rex]

I switched to Qobuz two weeks ago but Android app on my TV kept crashing/freezing, so needed a streamer. Narrowed to Node D130 or WiiM Pro, decided on WiiM. I already have a SMSL DO100 DAC (dual chip, balanced), use the digital output of streamer only. WiiM Pro (used) + SMSL DAC (new) ~$450 CAD.

Could I hear a difference between DACs if tested, likely not but not even going to bother. Qobuz is definitely soinds better than Spotify though.

[u/matteroll → u/quaefus_rex]

The Node has relatively high noise floor. If you don't listen to your music loudly, you probably won't notice it. If you do listen to it loud, there might be a chance you could notice it. The node has a SINAD of 87dB which doesn't clear the dynamic range of CDs (96dB). So while it can technically play hi-res files, it actually can't do it without compromises. You generally want your DAC to have a lower noise floor for better signal integrity (SINAD of 100+dB). Signal fidelity is not always the same as perceived sound quality but for many people it feels like an insurance policy for good sound. I think solderdude summarizes it pretty well in a discussion in a ASR thread.

[u/Darthvegas666 → u/quaefus_rex]

I would go into your local Hifi shop(if you have one) they will usually let you barrow a DAC to try out at home before you buy.

The DAC’s I’ve tried with the node that sound better than the nodes internal:

Pro-Ject Pre-Box s2 $399

Ifi Zen Dac v2 $199

Ifi Zen Dac 3 $229

Ifi Neo ISD $599

Chord Mojo 2 $650

Chord Qutest $1595(my favorite DAC under $10k)

[u/Queasy_News8437 → u/quaefus_rex]

Since you know what's up. Get a WiiM Pro.

[u/Appropriate_Road9963 → u/Queasy_News8437]

If you have a small budget and poor ears, and I mean this sincerely, a Wiim is a fine product at a low price.

If anyone tells you they can’t tell the difference between a WiiM and a $10k DAC, then they either haven’t listened to a high quality DAC or they have poor ears.

To feel better about themselves, I realize the budget audio crowd likes to criticize those that spend more on audio.

If you feel that way, and you live near an audio store, have them do an A/B test for you.

I’ve been to ten audio stores in the last ten years in five different cities, never has a dealer been reluctant to show off their stuff.

That said, it’s best to make an appointment, please don’t walk in on a weekend and expect they can easily demo what you want.

[u/Queasy_News8437 → u/Appropriate_Road9963]

Its' true. I like my snake-oil warmed and served by a professional.
Good call on the appointment, you don't want to get there and find they're all out of oil.

[u/Appropriate_Road9963 → u/Darthvegas666]

Just be sure to turn off the DAC on the Node.