Streaming - getting set up


I am interested in setting up a streaming system and need some help from experienced streamers?  I have a Playback Designs MPS-5 which I am told has a pretty good Dac.  I have a budget up to about 12k (includes necessary cabling) Would it be best to buy a nice streamer and connect it to my MPS-5 dac or get a all in one Dac/streamer.

I am looking for the best sound within my buget.

 

 

bobheinatz

Get a streamer. Typically a high end system benefits most from individual components. Combining a streamer and DAC generally involve compromises and then makes upgrading more difficult. 

I recommend Aurrender streamers. There are other good ones as well, but you get cutting edge sound quality and a great interface, built like tanks, and fantastic customer service. 

What is the rest of your system. There is a place to post photos and ID your equipment under your userID under virtual systems. This really helps us be able to help you. It is important to get the most out of your system to have components that complement each other... unless your building up to a much better system... then you want a much better streamer, 

Yes, definitely get a separate streamer, it makes a difference. Then spend some time with the DAC and see if it still makes you happy. Much has happened in the digital world since MPS-5 came out.

I agree with joss.   I started out with an Aurender N100 to dip my toe in the water so to speak.  I liked it so much I purchased an Aurender N 20.   I chose Aurender because I liked the Conductor interface.   The software interface will be a huge factor in YOUR decision.  Choose the one you like the best.   Good luck in your search!!

I always recommend starting at the bottom of the price range.  The quality is better than one might think and one can explore streaming.  If you decide streaming will be a major listening modality you can always upgrade.  If streaming isn’t something that you get into then you can spend the savings elsewhere.

  I bought. Wiim Pro for $100 last year  to add a streamer to a surround sound system that lacked any streaming.  It sounds remarkably good, set up was a breeze, and the app is fun to use.

Buying a streamer and cables for $12k still leaves you with a near 20 year old DAC. I’m sure it sounds very good but newer DACs at that level are better. 
If you like the sound of PBD, they offer MPD-6 with internal streaming module. 

If I were you, I’d keep your player and get a one box dac with streaming card like the MPD-6.
Going with a one box solution gives you an option to add whatever streamer you want later on but accomplishes a DAC upgrade immediately. The DAC is where the ROI will be in your case. Just my opinion of course.

You would be using Roon with the MPD-6. 

I own a Meitner MA3i which has an excellent streaming card. Using Roon and JPLAY. Sold Aurender N200 as it brought nothing to the table - no real improvement over the internal streamer.