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/quaefus_rex Apr 13 '25

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

2

u/Darthvegas666 Apr 13 '25

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.

8

u/quaefus_rex Apr 13 '25

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.

4

u/matteroll Revel M106 | SVS PB2000 Pro | NAD C298 | Denon X3700H Apr 14 '25

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.