Why would two units putting out the same bit stream sound different than one another? Isn't it the DAC(s) decoding the bit stream that would sound different? Or are some of these servers doing some internal processing to the bit stream? Is there the opportunity for loss of some packets with some protocols?
Is there a real difference in sound between Media Servers (without built-in DAC)?
I'm trying to choose a media server and am currently leaning toward a Bluesound Vault 2. I would most likely connect to an MQA-compatible DAC like a Mytek. We all know transports make a difference to sound quality, but is there a discernible difference between media servers? The Bluesound is pretty cheap at $1,200. Would a NAD 50.2 or Aurender or other more spendy server sound significantly better?
Rest of the system is Line Magnetic LM 518IA 22W integrated into Merlin TSM monitors, analog is Rega RP-6/Dynavector20X2L/Heed Quasar
Rest of the system is Line Magnetic LM 518IA 22W integrated into Merlin TSM monitors, analog is Rega RP-6/Dynavector20X2L/Heed Quasar