Time and time again I have set up systems and when the customer compares "high resolution" streaming like Qobuz to a local 24/96 file of the same recording they are shocked at the poor quality of the streaming. It is no surprise that the vinyl also outperforms it in your case. You have to compare it to a local file. Streaming is for background music only. The better the system the the worse streaming will sound. Personally, I think this is being done on purpose. The industry wants you buying records and files. There is no reason that streaming should not sound just as fine as a local file.
Getting into vinyl for the first time
Hey guys, I just am now getting into vinyl and I am really enjoying it. My wife got my a Audio-Technica turntable (LPW40WN) for christmas a few years ago and initially tested it with a cheapo emotiva integrated amp that had a built-in phono preamp. I was less than impressed and didn't really use the turntable much after that.
However, I recently felt I wanted to make more use of it so I went to a local audiophile shop (Just Audio in Middle River, MD; and a big thanks to Tom for helping me out) and inquired about getting a basic phono preamp.
I walked out with a Parasound Zphono and a new audio-technica cartridge (VM540ML). I know these are the basic of upgrades, but I didn't want to spend too much if did like the end result.
Since I never really look into vinyl music, I only had to albums: Metallica - Metallica and Imagine Dragons - Mercury pt 1.
I have to say I really liked what I heard. The sound was...meatier than what I am use to hearing from streaming. Played at the same setting, the sound was louder and much fuller too compared to Tidal streaming. My wife who isnt really into the audiophile scene could easily tell there was a notable difference between streaming and the vinyl version. She liked the vinyl sound too.
I have ordered a few more vinyl albums and can't wait to hear them.
As a rookie when it comes to vinyl, what are somethings I should know about as I am very clueless. I am considering on bringing the Zphono back and see if they will let me upgrade to something better without any restocking penalty. What phono preamp should I consider for under $1000? Is the cartridge I have good enough? Thanks for any and all information!!