Hickamore - I too am mystified by this. Reading around, you can find that some $1000+ streamers use a Raspberry Pi to do the actual processing. A R-Pi is about $30. So what seems to matter is the first stage of output. The R-Pi 4 has fixed a problem earlier models had with the quality of the USB-out. I like coax out so I got a good quality HAT to sit on top of my R-Pi. This measures spectacularly well yet was not more than about $100. I’ve done blind listening tests comparing this R-Pi plus Allo $150 setup with my Node 2i running digital coax out, both with the same Ethernet in, both out to the same DAC. There was no difference at all to my ears. Or to my son’s younger and better qualified (and very fussy) ears.
Sonics of Streaming
Reviewers, both here and in the audio press, speak of vast sonic differences among the many DAC-less streamers/network players on the market. Leaving aside features such as ease of use, variety of outputs etc., what internal design elements dictate inferiority/superiority in fidelity and the enormous range in pricing? My ancient analog brain can't grasp how Model X on a given ethernet cable can render streaming audio so differently from Model A+ on the same cable when both use the very same cables, DAC, amplification chain, and loudspeakers.
Advance thanks for a brief tutorial to guide my planned "upgrade."
Advance thanks for a brief tutorial to guide my planned "upgrade."