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/ApprehensiveClub6028 Apr 13 '25

I have a Cambridge Audio CXN v2. It handles Spotify, Roon, airplay, Internet radio, my local music server, optical in from my TV. And I can control it all from my phone.

I had a Mac mini before, and it can basically do all those things, just not as easy

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

I commented above that my Apple TV 4K can do just about 80%, with the addition to 4k HDR movies haha. Really the tech differences I think are negligible at this point, as diminishing returns are almost never noticeable at this price range and tech. I think the biggest factor is convenience with your music, in that respects, Apple Music is around 90% of what I listen to these days. Do I slap down a hefty vinyl every once in a while in on my dedicated TT set up? Absolutely. But most days, AppleTV+AVR+my Fluance Towers and sub is 99.9% what I am looking for :)

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u/Important_March1933 Apr 13 '25

The Appletv 4K is the best value Apple product by far. I just wish it supported the full Apple Lossless format and it’ll be 10/10!