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  3. 155582-20190

Basic Digital questions

For a short time I had a computer running JRiver through a little iFi DAC and accumulated digital files of various types. Not long after I got everything working the computer crashed and I have not replaced it. I now want to start again and get another computer, mainly dedicated to my audio system, but used for work when I need it. I also want to stream, as it could possibly be the only way to hear some music in the future. Furthermore, want to be "done" as soon as I can in this process, or at least as "done" as one can with digital audio. I thought I would ask a few questions before I start spending money and would appreciate suggestions any of you might have.  

If I have a laptop (PC, fanless) that has Wifi, Bluetooth, etc., would there be any point in having a DAC with those features? I imagine that if I want to use my phone I might need a DAC with Wifi. I don't need a DAC with a line-level or phono preamp.

 

I have been told that signals are best through Ethernet, not Wi-Fi. Have people found this to be true?

 

If I watch a movie through Netflix or Amazon (or, ahem, a disc) will I be able to run the digital information from the device to the DAC? I do not have an actual TV and do not use cable.


What are people's experiences with and preferences for Tidal, Qobuz, Roon, etc.? I know almost nothing about streaming.
john_r_palmer
tuberist's avatar
tuberist
951 posts
 
John, Lalitk gave you solid advice. You need a streamer to mate with your DAC and that physically connects with your audio hardware (amp). Wired ethernet cabling connection is always better IMO. I use Roon software interface to manage my Qobuz streaming service library and my solid state drive is connected to a dedicated Roon server. I only stream now. If you go to the Roon website you can see some system configurations.
erik_squires
15,902 posts
 
Ethernet is the best way to go.  In my mind for two reasons:

  • EMI/RFI noise
  • Reliability
Especially in densely populated residential areas, getting a reliable signal can be a PITA. I often have to change router channels to get a reliable signal. So, for either of these two reasons, Ethernet is preferred. When it works well though I can't hear a difference.
mazian's avatar
mazian
363 posts
 
Try the Auris BluMe HD. At around $100 it gives you CD quality when you stream from Tidal etc. The Bluetooth connection is solid and sound is excellent and you will save a lot of money
daledeee1's avatar
daledeee1
522 posts
 
A few months ago.  I didn't even know what questions to ask.  So I ended up with a Bluesound Node 2i streamer.  Almost unlimited music at your fingertips is great.  And with Hi Rez music it sounds good too.  Even by itself without a DAC it sound better than my old Rotel CD player.  I have Amazon HD music and they have not spent any time making it mesh well with the Bluesound.  Tidal, I hear, works better and has better sound quality.
loconut71
7 posts
 
I “stream” using a dedicated laptop which has an Ethernet/usb  that runs to my tube Dac. I tried the Bluesound Node 2i and wasn’t impressed. Purchased that through a place where I could return it easily thank God. I don’t do anything over WiFi that’s important. When I first started I used WiFi and the difference was very noticeable in my case when I switched to Ethernet. The laptop I use sits next to me and my stereo equipment is 15 feet away. Had to buy a usb/Ethernet kit due to usb limitations. Hope this helps. 
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