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Streamer vs renderer vs music server...help

I have been reading a lot of the forum posts to try understand my best path forward for my digital frontend.  Within the posts on streaming all these terms seem to come up with recommended brands but I am now somewhat confused as to what I need to get the best source sound quality to my DAC.  I don't know if I need a streamer, a dedicated music server, a renderer, a bridge, a roon endpoint, a combination of, or something else.  Looking for some education so I can then zero in on some options.  

I mostly stream tidal so I don't necessarily need to pay extra for CD ripping or file storage capabilities, however I won't discount these options if they come with the component that has great sound quality. Basically, how best do I get the Tidal stream to my DAC, preferably using Roon as the controller (open to other options if SQ is improved with different components).

I have a Leben CS600x, Devore 0/96s, and currently an Auralic Vega G2 but I am looking to change to the Holo Audio May KTE or a TotalDac.  The Vega has the built in streamer and lighting controller but I also use the Vega as a Roon endpoint with the Roon controller (I think that's how it works?)  The Roon core is currently on my iMAC.

Sorry for starting another post!  I tried to piece it together from other posts but there were too many types of components mentioned in the chain before the DAC that I didn't fully understand.

crandell25
carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

Here is something that many won't agree with.  But digital is a bunch of 1's and 0s.  There is no real sound quality to be gained with digital beyond making sure you don't drop any bits and you don't have speed and timing issues.  (Flame suit on).

So the most important thing is a good HMI.  Find one that is friendly to use.  If you like the Qobuz or Tidal interface you can use that.  I like Roon a lot.  So I have a dedicated core and streaming computer (2 NUCs).  If you like Roon, get a dedicated computer so it doen't have to fight you for processor time and you're good. 

Streamers are just another name for a dedicated computer.  Nothing wrong with them except sometimes the cost.  Of course they will tell you they are superior and many believe that.  see paragraph 1.

Now the DAC is a different story and that is where you should put your money.  I like Dave.

Jerry

crandell25 OP
22 posts
 

@carlsbad thanks for your thoughts!  In your case, your streaming NUC is wired directly to your DAC?

carlsbad's avatar
carlsbad
1,551 posts
 

My nuc is connected to my dac via USB.  I use a short, point to point soldered connection cable, but nothing elaborate...ones an zeros.  My core NUC is beside my router with another short cable.

rockrider
181 posts
 

I recommend perusing The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel. Hans has many very informative episodes. 
 

 

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