I have a DAC (Schitt Bifrost) that I like. If I buy a basic Bluetooth receiver, like the Emotiva BTR-1, with digital output and run it through the DAC, is there any reason to consider an all-in-one streamer, like the Bluesound Node, for example? Do they have benefits over a simple BT receiver and DAC? I mostly listen to Spotify when streaming.

  • TheWholeFragment@alien.topBEnglish
    1·
    1 year ago

    So I just researched this out after my wife just wanted to be able to stream music. I came up with three different solutions, that would fit my needs:

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    1. You can get a basic Bluetooth receiver into you DAC. (I also have the Schiit Bifrost) Two issues pop up, one your phone needs to stay connected to the receiver and Bluetooth audio is compressed. or
    2. You can go with a budget conscious streamer such as the WiiM Pro. By going with a dedicated streamer, the streamer handles the connection. So your Spotify app essentially hands the stream over to the streamer. Your phone continues to act as a remote for Spotify.
    3. I ultimately went with the Cambridge MXN10 (actually arrived today, so I haven’t played with it yet.) Does everything the WiimPro does, but in a nicer package. I choose the nicer package as it will match and create a ministack with my Cambridge phono stage. I am told the UI is nicer, but not sure how much that matters if I am controlling it with Spotify Connect. I was ultimately willing to pay more for aesthetics.

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    There are of course much more expensive streamers with screens, and other bells and whistles. I also looked at the Bluesound, but most it is similarly priced as the Cambridge and the Cambridge came out on top in most comparison reviews. But, once again I liked the aesthetic of the Cambridge and I think it will look better with the rest of my equipment.