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Where/how to start?

My music source is CD, SACD, and LPs. I occasionally listen to streaming music through Spotify. I don't have a music server or I don't use DACs for any digital forms of music.

However, as I am growing older (almost 60), I've been thinking about making things simple and setting up digital systems. Also, even though it is not lossless, I feel that music from Spotify is getting better recently.

I have a dedicated HT and 2 channel system. I have OPPO 105D and Esoteric UZ1. (Also 5 turntables.) 

So, how would I start? I don't have a budget set yet so it would be tough for you to give any concrete advice, but I'd like to hear about basic and simple pathways to setup a decent digital systems.  

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jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,608 posts
 

lyngdorf 112o or naim uniti atom, tidal connect (get rid of spotify, it sucks), speakers... superb sound, one box, done

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fuzztone
5,496 posts
 

My pathway was get a DAC to sincerely enjoy. Then get some sources. Currently I have 5 streamers, phono (via a Puffin) and a CDT all remotely selectable.

If you want to go with active speakers you usually have to use their DAC.

ghdprentice
6,358 posts
 

I am almost 70… I agree with your thinking.

 

First, you do have a DAC… the OPPO has a digital input… coax and USB (don’t use the optical). So you can start streaming.

 

Ultimately you want a high end streamer and DAC and good streaming provider. Qobuz is the best for streaming service audio. I would change to Qobuz… Tidal is pretty good as well, but Qobuz is better. At ony $14.99 / month with the first month free… it is a screaming deal.

 

Streaming sound quality can equal CD or SACD, streamed files or vinyl at multiple price points at this point in time. You can see my system under my ID… you do not have to go as high end as I have to get there.

To simplify how to look at the formula to get there… assuming you do your homework and get good sounding components… just looking at cost: $TT = Phono stage = streamer = DAC = Preamp = amp. All of my components are very roughly the same cost. My streamer is the most expensive by a bit. This simply communicates that all the pieces are critical and particularly those at the beginning of the signal path.

So, if I were you: I would look into a good streamer… a Bluesound if you want to go budget… Aurender if you want to put your foot on audiophile stuff. Any High end streamer: you plug it in (use your Oppo as DAC)… use your iPad to control it and to log on to your Qobuz account… and the world of nearly infinite music is available to you. You create a library of the stuff from albums you find on the service.

 

Then if you want to improve your sound further… get a high end DAC.

 

If you are retired and bored you can rip your CDs to files… but it is a complete waste of time. 

 

 

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