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Do different streamers really sound different when using an external DAC

Maybe this has been posted before but it seems that often when a post is made where someone has gotten better sound it’s because it was the streamer with included DAC that was changed, not just the streamer. No doubt a better internal DAC,  better file resolution, a better music service, will make a difference.

But I just want to see comparison of streamer to streamer with the same DAC implementation. I am currently using a Bluesound Node2i outputting via Coax into a high quality tube DAC
So here’s the million dollar question.

What have been your experiences in upgrading streamers, keeping everything else the same ie, DAC, cables, output type (Coax)? No doubt better control apps and having a display will elevate your experience but how about just sound quality. Anyone?

Thanks


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lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,393 posts
 
Upgrades for your Node; change stock PC to an aftermarket C7 cable, use CAT8 ethernet from router to Node.
I use a Cullen C7 PC and the improvement in SQ was dramatic. Also, wired is better quality than wifi, also no dropouts.
My Node is connected to an Audio Note dac.


vinylshadow
398 posts
 
Great question. That is exactly where I'm at now. I want to upgrade to a streamer and use my Classe SSP-800's DAC. I thought about the Node 2i but if you use an external DAC you only get 24/96 out of the Node.

I was looking at the Bryston BDP-π for $1300 which is about as high as I want to go pricewise. I have TIDAL and was thinking I'd want a TIDAL Connect device but since that is WiFi maybe the best sonics comes from a hard wired Ethernet connection?
I have a modem upstairs for my desktop so I'd need a downstairs Ethernet as well.

I'm not advanced enough to know what's better. Maybe one of you wise Sages can help me out. Thanks.
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,393 posts
 
Bluesound Node2i will output 24/192.


vinylshadow
398 posts
 
Yes. With their DAC. But I read that if you use the SPDIF digital coax out, only 24/96. Bluesound's website does not clarify.

If I am wrong then I'd sure like to know!
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feldmen4
108 posts
 
I can weigh directly in on your situation. I have a Node 2 and bought a Mytek Manhattan II DAC with network card (streamer). Initially I set it up as you have with the Node 2 going into the Manhattan via high quality Coax. Then I directly compared it to the network card in the DAC. No question that the Mytek network card sounds better than the node 2 streamer. 
I will say that the difference between the DAC in the node 2 and the DAC in the Mytek was much greater than the difference between the streamers. But yes, the streamer made a clear and noticeable difference. The only reason I ever use the Node anymore is if there is something on the radio I want to listen to - my brother-in-law is a DJ in Irvine CA and I like hearing his show - and the Mytek interface doesn’t allow for radio streaming. 
Matt
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