I see this in a similar light as the question surrounding using a CD as a transport- and the differences between units. I have 2 older EAD units that I use with external DAC's and they are superior to any other CD player/transport I have used. I am certain better units exist, I just haven't heard them. Theoretically they are delivering just "digits", but even with my ancient ears I hear a significant difference. Why would streamers be any different? Better signal paths, better components....should probably sound better. Whether that difference is worth $10K is up to the individual and their budget.
Streamer opinion.. Pease comment on validity.
Please comment on the below statement.
"A streamer is just a digital network appliance. It connects to a network, renders a digital stream, and spits out either analogue or digital audio stream. It's just digits; you don't need an 'audiophile network streamer' for the digital aspect. The 'audiophile' stuff is handled by the DAC. If the DAC can't clean up noise and jitter on the digital inputs, it's poorly engineered; look elsewhere."
"A streamer is just a digital network appliance. It connects to a network, renders a digital stream, and spits out either analogue or digital audio stream. It's just digits; you don't need an 'audiophile network streamer' for the digital aspect. The 'audiophile' stuff is handled by the DAC. If the DAC can't clean up noise and jitter on the digital inputs, it's poorly engineered; look elsewhere."