Officially my favourite Hifi TH-camr. Immensely knowledgeable, yet explains things not in an arrogant way like so many audiophiles do who think their gods gift who crap all over you. Thank you for being one of those rare audiophiles that tries to simply educate and not show off your knowledge, which you do but in a much nicer way! Subscribed.
Thanks John. I really like the effort to get the basics out there in addition to some of the higher end products and discussions. It can take a really long time for someone who is trying to learn to understand the basic info that you have laid out here in 10 minutes or so. Gotta build the foundation before we can advance our understanding. I appreciate all the hype-free content you produce.
Thank you John! After watching your last video, I purchased a Zen DAC V2 and connected it to my vintage Denon PMA-757 integrated amp in my second system. I upgraded the RCAs to better quality AQ cables and my MacBook. WOW!! The little Zen DAC V2 worked it magic. Thanks again!!
Ha! “I’ve gotcha” 👍🏼☺️ Seriously, trying different options is part of the fun of this, and thank you for taking us through so many of them. Personally did’t know about driving Spotify connect on a laptop/usb/dac from an iPhone until now 🙏🏼
I’ve been an audiophile for 35yrs, loving these videos though and your approach to music in general. The fundamental hifi things make the biggest difference - but it’s so easy to go down a thousand rabbit holes looking for better sound, which I lost interest in and came back to the beginning again.
**PLEASE READ CAREFULLY** 1) Got a question? Please ask it of the Darko.Audio TH-cam community (and not me) as I'm now busy making the NEXT video. All comments here are moderated by a third party. 2) Polite comments that advance the conversation are most welcome (but no URLs, please)
I like that you take time to mention and moderate the tenor of comments. I prefer order, insight, and understanding to meanness, rancor, and pettiness, none of which is helpful, but can creep into the most innocuous topics.
Really great introduction series. Today many peoples first leap into hifi is buying something online and often unheard. This series offers the knowledge for people to do some critical thinking beyond what their influencer is pushing that week.
I realy like your videos and I learnt a lot. I've built up a HiFi system and stream my music as you have suggested. When I have friends over, who don't have a good sound system and are a little sceptical of HiFi, I always ask them what their favourite song/track is and then play to them, as they listen they hear it and things in the song they never heard before, they also comment it's like the musicians are in the room playing. I know then they get the difference and are hooked. So always play your favourite track first, you know the song but will, hopefully, hear more and enjoy it more. Good luck 😊
I'm as beginner, as they get - not (yet) jumped the ship to streaming services and am extremely frustrated by cables and have listened to my CDs over very crappy speakers, because they're already connected and I don't have to fuss with it. I learned a lot in these Beginner-videos already and hope to upgrade sometime... Thank you!!
My go to setup is iPhone/iPad ---> Lyngdorf TDAI 1120 (AirPlay) ---> Dynaudio Special 40 I don't think I can do it differently or add anything else to improve my sound at this point, but I am very happy with the result!
The TOS cable has a strand of glass inside, it is a fibre optic cable. Unlike wire, these types of cables need to be handled a little carefully. If they are wound too tightly they can get small cracks or even break. If the do get small cracks, the light inside the fibre is reflected around and it messes up the signal. There are specifications for minimum radius and all, but a good rule of thumb would be a 10-12” diameter radius when coiling the TOS cable. Oh, and a safety tip - don’t look at the end of the cable to check for light there. The light is generated by a laser and could damage your eyes. Hope that helps you get the most from your gear. Cheers!
I have been a Darko fan for some time (for your reviews) but just recently began to watch your tutorial videos and like them a lot. As an oldtimer with a mechanical background (think cams & levers), electronics have always been a mystery to me and now, in the computer/digital age, it can become very frustrating and confusing to me. Your videos are very well done, limited jargon and clear information with just enuf technical content. Good job !!!
Really appreciate the efforts to make audio equipment accessible to everyone! As a university student in Singapore I have been trying to look into cheap hifi solutions and your channel has been quite helpful in helping me better understand what I need and what I can omit form my setup. Although the suggestions are still out of my budget, they have provided good guidelines and a direction for me to work towards. The budget audiophile community has many good suggestions but I have been having difficulty finding them within my country. Thank you Darko, Jana and Olaf!
Please how do I use or connect while using my Apple TV which is how I listen to Apple Music and watching the interface. I would like to learn the best quality way by adding a DAC. Absolutely love your approach to audio and your channel. Thanks!
I have an additional very low cost option I would like to add. I am using a 3rd generation Apple TV. Purchased specifically because it has AirPlay built-in and a TOSLINK out port. I can use AirPlay with Apple Music or use the Apple TV as a Roon endpoint. Leave my PC off for a change. 3rd generation Apple TV’s can be acquired on eBay for $20+.
David, can you use the Apple TV without connecting a tv? I have a newer version and the tv must be switched on (TV has remote connections box with Toslink). I’m still struggeling between Spotify (ease of use) and Apple Music (quality) to play with my Audiolab 6000 Play.
I've been using the Node 2i for a while now. I started out running toslink out to a Schiit modi 3. Then I later took out the modi just using the DAC in the Node. I really didn't hear much difference so I eliminated a box. I am very happy with the sound so far. If I decide to add an external DAC in the future I may go with a Denafrips Ares. The Bluesound Node 2i is a very acceptable budget audiophile streamer.
The Schiit modi 3 wouldn't improve much over the node indeed. I have the node 2i as well and was really pleased with its integrated DAC. I eventually upgraded de DA conversion with the Chord Qutest and I could definitely hear the difference. The Denafrips Ares should give you a pretty good upgrade as well especially on details retrieval and sound stage.
I use the Schiit Modi 3 and like it well enough, especially at its price point, and I can feed it difference sources (an iPAD via USB for Spotify, a older CD player via coax, and have a Toslink input still available for something else one day). Thinking of getting the new Node with its supposedly better DAC and putting the Modi 3 in my computer room/office to feed an older A/V receiver from the PC. Then yeah, long term, I might get a better external DAC for the Node...and that Denafrips Ares does look like an end game DAC for mere mortals.
Exactly the same as my findings. Decided the Modi did not improve the sound of my Node 2i significantly, so took it out of the loop. Luckily I already owned the Modi for computer based sound.
I have a Node 2i streaming to a Denafrips Ares II and you can definitely hear a significant improvement versus just using the DAC in the Node 2i. The DAC in the Node 2i is however pretty good and it is adequate if you are not streaming high quality resolution material. I love the Node 2i and I have heard several reviewers prefer the DAC implementation in it versus the new Node...I have not heard the Node, so I can't make a judgment on that!
Another great video! I am very impressed by the way you diplomatically ask audiophiles not to be condescending to noobs. We are all noobs in some context or other. Just because someone doesn’t understand something about how audio systems today work is no reason to demean them and the act of doing so says a lot about the person doing it rather than the victim. There are other subjects upon which the person being demeaned might well be a colossus of knowledge and wisdom.
John you have done a superb job with this video series. 20+ years ago it was less complicated I think than it is today. The options then were either a hifi-stacker-system, or pure separates. Today we have streaming which is great. We also have easy and simple products - hello Sonos. But if a person wants something more 'hifi' the options and possibilities are huge. You understand that this could be confusing to some people. The source(eg Spotify), device/phone, streamer, Dac, (pre-power amp), cables/interconnects, and speakers. An enthusiast will understand all of this - but for someone wanting to replace their Sonos One - not so. You try to help answer the question - what actually do I need to start my journey . Thanks. Great Work.
Ironic that the video is brought to us by Roon, which on its own solves a ton of the complex problems presented in the video. I use Tidal/Roon and Roon is my listening position remote control of my core, which is an iMac. No streamer needed. Unless you tell me I'm taking a meaningful fidelity hit by going iMac > DAC inside my preamp.
I think you might want to revise your position on airplay, since if you use the Apple Music app, and also have an Apple TV, the music app on an iPhone or iPad allows you to select to control the apple tv music app, then the apple tv is sending the stream to your AirPlay device, not the phone, essentially giving you your “connect” functionality. Underneath the airplay list of devices, you select “control other speakers and tvs” then the music app will give you a different queue.
Have really enjoyed these two vids, thank you. Can we please have an intermediate or expert series on this as there’s still so much left to learn. I’m also very interested in streaming music through a television through a TOSLINK into a DAC and then into my amp.
Hi, I think I would add one note regarding volume control, since if you use the node as a preamp you get volume control on your phone, which is what a lot of people have got accustomed to with Bluetooth speakers. Another thing I would add John is that most integrated amplifiers now include a DAC, so it gets a bit ridiculous paying for three of them.
It’s really nice to see very accessible explanations. In my case, the use in real life, in a living room used by my young children, spouse, and myself is ease of use: Apple TV into TV with optical out to amp with built in DAC. It’s the most complex that’s user friendly to my 6 year old. I thought of adding a DAC, or having a separate source for streaming other than the Apple TV, but that would lead to moments where the wrong source is selected for my kids to get sound of Netflix “Papa? Papa? Can you come help me?” And I like how the video built towards that simplest option, not what is almost always the case, add components and make it more complex pursuing HiFi.
This is pretty rudimentary, but I really appreciate that many of us just need a direction to go. This is way easier than the videos you have done with the Raspberry Pie and programming a chip. All doable. My main system is 45 years old. The 2 TV/music systems are 20 years old. The Node would be easy to add.
For myself and I'm sure for others, the easiest way to set this up is using my TV as the digital receiver. Most modern TV's are able to receive Airplay and Spotify Connect or similar for other apps like TH-cam. I'm finding that since hooking up to nice speakers like this I'm really enjoying watching live recordings, concerts and music videos on youtube too.
I know this is an old video, but just an update - you can now send audio and video via Airplay from an iPhone/iPad (at the listening position) to a MacBook/Mac mini, you just need to turn on the option in the settings of the Mac to turn on Airplay receiver mode.
WELL DONE ! Indeed... so many ways to skin this proverbial 'cat'. My biggest issue is to ensure gapless playback AND ensure the stream is playing at the SAME RESOLUTION as the resolution of the source track. Also, I find that Node2i's DAC to be so much more inferior than any external DACs. I sure hope that it has improved with the NODE 2021 (not yet auditioned). I do have my eye out for their VAULT (2022??) someday. Thanks Jana and John for doing what you do !
Another really informative video John. As someone who is thinking of entering the streaming world for the first time these two videos have really helped. As you referred to, I don't have to go to the store and be dazzled by the sales pitch. Cheers mate, keep them coming.
Thank you, John. I would like to make a suggestion. When many think of "streaming," they think of bluetooth, and they might ask the question, "Why don't I just connect to my speakers with bluetooth and cut out all the streamer, DAC and amp?" Similarly, perhaps you could mention speakers that have a streamer, DAC or amp built in? Thank you, as always, for the videos!
+1 I’m using Klipsch The Fives active power speakers that all sources plug into, or Bluetooth directly, so no need for an external amp, preamp or DAC. Trying to get me head around source devices that step up from playing Bluetooth via my phone. I’m especially interested in offline playback of my iTunes library and Apple Music without relying on streaming since my rural USA internet is too spotty for a Spotify type service
I run my Node 2i with an external DAC which is RME DAC FS - the difference is huge! Without the external DAC, Node sounded much worse than my CD (old Rega Apollo). Now it sounds equal to the CD, if not better.
I’m in a similar boat with the ADI-2 as well, although I’m using an Apple TV 4K as the streamer instead of a Node. I use Apple Music as the streaming service, and I’ve think I’ve got lossless audio figured out? It’s not perfect, as Apple TV is only 24bit/48, but why am I still trying to search for 24bit/192??? Must be the audiophile in me? I wish Apple had a better solution like Spotify Connect (using a wireless device as the remote) while still retaining top audio quality by streaming the music directly into the streamer.
@@thumby8140 It’s pretty unlikely you’d hear the difference between 24/48 and 24/192. I’ve participated in a few fairly well run blind tests and could not differentiate between lossless and hi-res. Regarding Airplay versus Spotify (or Tidal) Connect, Airplay has the advantage of enabling streaming from any sound source on the device, whereas “Connect” type streaming is limited to the particular service. This is a significant advantage and I believe is the reason Apple is not likely to offer a Connect-type streaming option.
It's interesting that you experienced that. I have upgraded my Bluesound Node 2i to use a LSPU, and it has made quite an improvement to the sound. To the point that I tried a Hugo2 as an external source on the Bluesound Node 2i, and couldn't pick a clear winner. Glad it has improved things for you.
You make a great point about getting or giving information to other people, I have noticed that some groups are not good at sharing, I used to be a sales man so for me its second nature to share my findings.
I’m a beginner audiophile. About to buy some headphones and dragonfly dac to start listening to lossless apple music. Can’t wait till I have my own place so I can build a home hifi setup. Thanks Darko!
I am using an LG TV, which has Airplay, I output the audio using HDMI ARC, and Toslink, to the AV Receiver. The receiver and TV both has Bluetooth. But, the LG TV, has Airplay 2.0, I presume. I can connect to it directly from any iPhone 🙂 Would Lossless Apple Music work with the LG TV, sir, with Airplay 2.0 enabled? Does it output Hi-Res audio? If yes, how high up does the bitrate go, please? I do not have a dedicated DAC, or an amplifier, unfortunately. From Phone > TV > Receiver > Speakers (all are using digital output). Will this setup be enough? Or would I need to modify something? Thank you so much in advance for any clarification. This was an awesome video 👌
Thanks as a total beginner, it’s when I listen to your descriptions of sound characteristics, it’s like a foreign language. Anyway I’m getting hooked, I’ve just got an Apple TV box for the TV and I might try to figure out how to rig it up to a decent streamer/amp/speaker system thing next, if it’s possible.
Thank you John, it's a year seeing your channel, always very instructive episodes, always funny, and very good music recommendations! Keep up the good work!
A simple way, that I use, is an Apple TV 3 via Toshlink to my Denon receiver (140 W/ch). It plays Spotify & Apple Music (that I dont like the interface) gapless. Simple, cheap and good quality. Apple TV 4 do not have the Toshlink, so you have to buy the 3.
Very good John! I'd consider myself to be an absolute novice audiophile. I had a hand-me-down JVC separates system as a teenager and - 30 years later - I still know good sound when I hear it (even though my hearing has faded somewhat!) I have built two budget systems - both including Bluesound products. On my desktop, I have a Node 2i feeding a homemade amp (MINIDSP inside!) driving 2.1 speakers. In my lounge, I have a Powernode 2 driving a pair of ceiling speakers and a sub. I think the key point with Bluesound products is that they offer quality sound whilst remaining simple to use for the non-geeks in my household. I have even programmed presets so that they can press numbered buttons on the Bluesound remote to directly access their Spotify playlists without having to touch their phones. Couldn't be easier!
Thanks John - still enjoying pretty much every video you produce. Somehow you manage to get the mix of product views, b-roll, and speaking perfect every time. I also truly like the way you approach requesting respectful conduct in the comments. If only you had some authority to oversee the facebook groups…lol! Take care.
Your videos are really helpful John, I have watched so many of them in the last couple of days. The one solution I have not found addressed (including Google searches) is this: From my couch, can I use an iPhone to stream, via Airplay, the CD-quality ALAC files that I have stored on a 1Tb SSD to my Airplay-enabled network receiver? Right now the only way I have found to do this is through my MBP (with the SSD connected), which is a pain when I am moving about the house. Thanks as always and keep those videos coming.
So I found a solution: Stratospherix's MusicStreamer. It has been working seamlessly so far. The browser is quite functional and once indexed, the d-base stays intact. It has a lot of features I have yet to explore but as a far as meeting my goal,, it seems like a very good solution.
Maybe one more thing: If you like what the Bluesound Node does, but don't have an amp yet... just get the Powernode. Are there better amps? Yes. But the Powernode is extremely convenient and the price tag is quite reasonable for everything you get. I have the Audiolab 6000A and the latest Powernode, and while the Audiolab seems to sound a little better, the Powernode gets louder and has most use cases covered.
Ok. Ya got me!!! So, the elephant that you led into the room by it’s trunk is…Which is the better dac? The one in the Node or the one in the Cambridge?🇨🇦
John have you done a video on speaker placement? I realize every room/condition is different but maybe, if you’ve not already done so, you could show how you came up with the solution you are using in your room with those sound absorbing wall pieces? Cheers mate
And thank you again! You explain the inter-workings of streaming for layman so well. Thank you, thank you very much! (in my best Elvis voice). Please keep these lessons up!
This video is a year old but I have an interesting question that can hopefully be answered. I recently purchased the ELAC Navi B51 powered bookshelfs. These will be used as my desktop speaker setup. I am pairing them with a Cambridge audio dacmagic 100 via Kimber analog RCA from elacs to dacmagic then connecting via usb from dacmagic to my computer. Not sure if this dac is good enough.... My question is if I want to also have the option for network streaming should I add in a blue sound node in the mix. Meaning connect a toslink cable from bluesound to the dacmagic or get rid of the dacmagic and use just bluesound for network streaming and connect the bluesound to my PC via toslink...
I agree about audiophiles not dealing with none or new / beginning audiophiles. Shortly after getting my drivers license I was already into audio but still knew next to nothing. Remember back then the internet wasn't around 1977 . So anyway I walk into a shop and because I was just a kid and knew nothing they gave me what I thought were snooty answers. They couldn't take time away from drinking there coffee and didn't have time to guide me along by answering some beginner questions they had to get back to drinking coffee leaving me standing there. WELL I never went back and now they were one of the first to close. I don't have any shops close to me under fifty miles. In fact there's one closer in Canada and I'm sure they would be nicer.
Learning a lot from your content, John, so thank you! So, if I’m starting from scratch, how can I evaluate the quality of the DAC in the streamer to determine if I should also buy an external DAC to connect it to? I see in another video that you recommend adding an external DAC to the Wiim Mini, even though it also has one internal. How can I tell when an external is needed without having to buy and try many products and product combinations?
Hi John. Thanks so much for putting these videos together for people, like myself, who are new to audio streaming. After many many months of deliberation, I've finally taken the leap and recently bought a Cambridge CXN V2 streamer. I've owned a Musical Fidelity M6si amp and B&W CM9 S2 floor standers for a while - so I'm running everything through those. I though that I'd researched this all pretty thoroughly, but what I wasn't fully aware of was the integration of my Apple music subscription with the CXN V2. It works, but I'm wondering whether I should either swap out the CXN V2 for something that's more conducive to Apple Music(?) ....or possibly change my subscription over to Spotifi or Tidal, etc. I'd prefer gapless and as high-res as possible, if possible - of course! I appreciate that things might have moved on a bit since you made this video but any advice would be very much appreciated. So, we know that the hardware is good (so is my speed - 100MB+ down / 20MB up) but the dimensions of my house don't always seem to allow me to carry my iPhone (7) around with me without losing connection - so change service? Don't want to push things but the CM9's are in a large(ish) lounge with 3m high ceilings and Parquet flooring - so pretty 'hard'. Can you recommend some 'warmer' speakers also...? Thanks again for your work.
Great Video! Thank you! Been watching your videos through the weekend as I am in the need of a solution for a new, not to big room. And the Kef LS 55 meta and wireless is probably what I will get. Seeing this video though makes me think, if I can choose either, for something like you’re describing, wouldn’t the wireless be a clear choice? Or, am I missing something that would make want a dedicated amp, a dac/bluenode kinda device and passive speakers? I also want to connect a TV… Love to hear your opinion 😊👍 (Oh, and that lack of “functionality/cooperation” in apple’s functionality… wow! I had no idea… That’s a loss of points in my opinion and I am an all out apple guy…)
I have read your positive review of the BiFrost DAC, Schitt Audio; however their customer service says that it is not built for a Bluetooth receiver, and it could blow a fuse. They've not explained why, but I have to trust them for it, so will look at other comparable DACs. I like the idea of streaming through a Chromebook, and suspect whatever noise it contributes would be hard to hear....just like everything these days is a little hard to hear.
Hey Jon, I’m thinking about upgrading my current two slice toaster and need your advice. I’m mostly a ‘soft white /super thick’ guy but more recently in the mornings I’ve begun trialing artisanal sourdough and pumpernickel loaves (with mixed results!) Is a two slice model sufficient or should I consider future proofing with a four (or even six )? What are the best settings? How essential is a front loading removable crumb tray? I realise my request maybe slightly wide of your field of expertise but I’d really appreciate a definitive answer by next Thursday as I’d hate to miss out on the Black Friday sales
Toaster? A Sheep tallow candle (which gives a mellower flame than wax, as any fule know) will blow the toaster out of the water. The time spent waiting for the toast to warm up wull just go to involve you in the toast and heighten your anticipation.
@@andygilbert1877 I personally am a purist. I built a firepit just for toast in my kitchen. But be carefull what metals you use. You want pure Iron! None of that aluminium or ceramic stuff. It makes that small but important difference taste!
Not sure if this could be classed as a beginners question but I will ask it just the same. If I want to stream Spotify connect (this is the only service I currently use) using a Raspberry Pi4 is it better to use an external DAC connected via USB or buy a DAC HAT and connect directly to my amp via RCA? I also realise that there are other HAT options for providing alternatives to USB for connecting to an external DAC but that will increase the cost. Or do I have other streaming options for my budget which is between £150 and £200 including the cost of the Pi4 and power supply and case etc.
Super content - thanks! Not sure how I missed episode 2/2 on this streaming topic, but glad I found it. I was an early adopter of Sonos, so have a bunch of units around. You mentioned them, but might want to include them as an option: I have an old Sonos Connect into a Shitt DAC (the basic $99 model) into a low power tube amp so I can stream direct from Spotify, my home NAS full lof MP3s, Pandora, and other services… I think it’s a valid and versatile option.
I have more or less the same set-up as you except Sonos Connect is directly connected to my integrated Rogue Audio Sphinx amp. Do you think adding Schitt DAC will make a whole lot or difference or do you recommend a better DAC? Which amp are you using?
Great video. I’ve got a Linn Majik DSM, the Linn unit can connect to Spotify, Tidal etc for lossless. But I trying to find a way to get Apple Music as it’s best for coverage for my genre. I know can Airplay but it is messy with phone calls and walking out room and can’t volume control etc
Thanks for the video John. However, whats the point having a high end DAC while your audio streaming service like Spotify only offers low quality audio file when connecting via airplay 2 or bluetooth
Great information John, however, I cannot find any information about setting up my Xiaomi Mi Box S to the internet using a dummy HDMI plug and my iPhone and streaming music via my DAC using an optical cable between headphone socket on Mi Box?
How about (if known) Spotify hi-fi vs Amazon HD? I'm an Amazon Prime member. I have Spotify's free version. As far as I know Spotify free and paid versions are commercials, were sound quality is similar, which means Spotify hi-fi will be on the paid version. Now I have the Cambridge Audio Azur 851n preamp which also has a built-in streamer, but only certain streaming services; like Spotify, but not Amazon. I also have a NVIDIA Shield TV Pro, which does both. So far I've been streaming Spotify and TH-cam Music through my NVIDIA, and using my Cambridge as a digital preamp. As a FYI I'm an Android user. So, if I'm to upgrade to a paid service, which would be the best bang for the buck, Amazon HD or Spotify hi-fi?
Thanks, I know that this is an old video but I just think is a great video for beginners. I have a Hegel h 95 and it’s not wireless and this video help me a lot. Thanks
THANKS JOHN 🤗 WE LOVE 😍 YOUR MODESTY AND YOUR ATTITUDE AND YOUR EXPLAINING THINGS FOR THE NEW ONES AND US OLDER ONES…ESPECIALLY US TECHNICALLY CHALLENGED 😉😍😍😍
Thanks for another great video on streaming services. I'm still confused a bit about capacity of Air Play. What I have read: 1. Stream from an iPhone through Air Play 2 to NODE = AAC @ 256 kbps 2. Stream from a Macbook through Air Play 2 to NODE = 16 bit 44.KHz (ALAC / Apple Lossless, but never gets max to 24 bit/48 KHz) 3. There is no way to stream Hi-Res Lossless 24 bit 192 KHz between an Apple device and NODE or any other receiver. You have to use cable and additional DAC. Am I right, or I mixed something?
I’m pretty sure iPhone streams lossless airplay too. Bluetooth is aac 256 tho. And Spotify is only 320 equivalent anyway. Best you can Do w phone is amazon, tidal, apple etc.
Point 1. Correct, Apple Music app doesn’t stream lossless. Point 2. Not sure. Point 3. Correct, camera connector kit, usb cable and DAC required. I just use a long usb cable so can still control it from the sofa 😊
@@ianmearsphoto Point 1. Actually it does. AirPlay is limited to 24bit/48kHz but Apple Music app itself can stream up to 24bit/192kHz but you need an external DAC for it
Great!.... Xiaomi Mi Box ---> amplifier VS Nodo---> amplifier ( both without external DAC)...is there much difference in sound quality? I understand that the Xiaomi Mi Box has an internal DAC Thanks
Great video. Luckily, my tv has airplay built in. So I airplay to that. And toslink from that to my DAC/preamp to my amp. Works great. I guess an issue is that the TV will be on while I do so but I don't mind having the cover art on that. And I can use my phone to control the music. Works great. And I believe airplay is capable of 24-bit / 48 kHz audio. I don't have the ears to differentiate anything higher than that
If this is the beginners guide to streaming I would hate to see the advance guide. When I retired- no PC-no laptop-no iPad… although I have iPhone. But it’s all Greek to me…
The way things are moving techwise you need to get the internet into your house on something more flexible and cheaper than your phone. Are you saying you’ve only got the phone to access the internet with at the moment?
I have a NAD 325bee, castle howard S3 speakers and schiit bitfrost dac. I play most of my music using my laptop. I'm considering the node as an option for streaming. Question: should I keep using my dac which I like, or connect the node directly to my amp?
TH-cam videos... I like watching/listening to TH-cam music videos. Currently I'm using a Azulle stick computer plugged into a 23' monitor. USB out to my Hegel H95 and then Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary speakers. I have the highest audio quality selected on the sound on the Azulle, 96 khz is reflected in the display on the H95. I usually listen to 1080p video, but at times it's less. How can I get the best audio quality from my TH-cam listening? I'm thinking this may be as good as it gets.
I would like the Bluesound products much better if their form factor was more like a conventional hifi component - meaning a vertical display. The way it is you have to have table top (desktop) location to use the controls on the unit. Not everyone has that available.
Please don’t pull or disconnect cables by the cable. Use the connector at the end of the cable. Unless it’s some rugged heavy duty cable, it will shorten its life, and potentially cause failure down the line.
“And…I’ve gotcha.” Favorite Darko moment, ever.
That Gotcha video of John's is one of my favourites!!
Was so good. 😂
But which is the best?
Got us and our wallets!
Officially my favourite Hifi TH-camr. Immensely knowledgeable, yet explains things not in an arrogant way like so many audiophiles do who think their gods gift who crap all over you. Thank you for being one of those rare audiophiles that tries to simply educate and not show off your knowledge, which you do but in a much nicer way! Subscribed.
Nobody makes "Beginner Friendly" more straight forward or as pleasant as Mr Darko. Top stuff
Thanks John. I really like the effort to get the basics out there in addition to some of the higher end products and discussions. It can take a really long time for someone who is trying to learn to understand the basic info that you have laid out here in 10 minutes or so. Gotta build the foundation before we can advance our understanding. I appreciate all the hype-free content you produce.
Thank you John! After watching your last video, I purchased a Zen DAC V2 and connected it to my vintage Denon PMA-757 integrated amp in my second system. I upgraded the RCAs to better quality AQ cables and my MacBook. WOW!! The little Zen DAC V2 worked it magic. Thanks again!!
Ha! “I’ve gotcha” 👍🏼☺️ Seriously, trying different options is part of the fun of this, and thank you for taking us through so many of them. Personally did’t know about driving Spotify connect on a laptop/usb/dac from an iPhone until now 🙏🏼
I use my iPhone to drive the Spotify app on my PS4/5 as well. It's great!
(paraphrasing) "And if you ask which DAC is better... You're an audiophile and, I've gotcha." LOVE THIS!
I’ve been an audiophile for 35yrs, loving these videos though and your approach to music in general. The fundamental hifi things make the biggest difference - but it’s so easy to go down a thousand rabbit holes looking for better sound, which I lost interest in and came back to the beginning again.
**PLEASE READ CAREFULLY**
1) Got a question? Please ask it of the Darko.Audio TH-cam community (and not me) as I'm now busy making the NEXT video. All comments here are moderated by a third party.
2) Polite comments that advance the conversation are most welcome (but no URLs, please)
I like that you take time to mention and moderate the tenor of comments. I prefer order, insight, and understanding to meanness, rancor, and pettiness, none of which is helpful, but can creep into the most innocuous topics.
Really great introduction series. Today many peoples first leap into hifi is buying something online and often unheard. This series offers the knowledge for people to do some critical thinking beyond what their influencer is pushing that week.
I realy like your videos and I learnt a lot. I've built up a HiFi system and stream my music as you have suggested. When I have friends over, who don't have a good sound system and are a little sceptical of HiFi, I always ask them what their favourite song/track is and then play to them, as they listen they hear it and things in the song they never heard before, they also comment it's like the musicians are in the room playing. I know then they get the difference and are hooked. So always play your favourite track first, you know the song but will, hopefully, hear more and enjoy it more. Good luck 😊
I'm as beginner, as they get - not (yet) jumped the ship to streaming services and am extremely frustrated by cables and have listened to my CDs over very crappy speakers, because they're already connected and I don't have to fuss with it. I learned a lot in these Beginner-videos already and hope to upgrade sometime... Thank you!!
My go to setup is iPhone/iPad ---> Lyngdorf TDAI 1120 (AirPlay) ---> Dynaudio Special 40
I don't think I can do it differently or add anything else to improve my sound at this point, but I am very happy with the result!
The TOS cable has a strand of glass inside, it is a fibre optic cable. Unlike wire, these types of cables need to be handled a little carefully. If they are wound too tightly they can get small cracks or even break. If the do get small cracks, the light inside the fibre is reflected around and it messes up the signal. There are specifications for minimum radius and all, but a good rule of thumb would be a 10-12” diameter radius when coiling the TOS cable. Oh, and a safety tip - don’t look at the end of the cable to check for light there. The light is generated by a laser and could damage your eyes. Hope that helps you get the most from your gear. Cheers!
I have been a Darko fan for some time (for your reviews) but just recently began to watch your tutorial videos and like them a lot. As an oldtimer with a mechanical background (think cams & levers), electronics have always been a mystery to me and now, in the computer/digital age, it can become very frustrating and confusing to me. Your videos are very well done, limited jargon and clear information with just enuf technical content. Good job !!!
Really appreciate the efforts to make audio equipment accessible to everyone! As a university student in Singapore I have been trying to look into cheap hifi solutions and your channel has been quite helpful in helping me better understand what I need and what I can omit form my setup. Although the suggestions are still out of my budget, they have provided good guidelines and a direction for me to work towards. The budget audiophile community has many good suggestions but I have been having difficulty finding them within my country. Thank you Darko, Jana and Olaf!
Please how do I use or connect while using my Apple TV which is how I listen to Apple Music and watching the interface. I would like to learn the best quality way by adding a DAC.
Absolutely love your approach to audio and your channel. Thanks!
I have an additional very low cost option I would like to add. I am using a 3rd generation Apple TV. Purchased specifically because it has AirPlay built-in and a TOSLINK out port. I can use AirPlay with Apple Music or use the Apple TV as a Roon endpoint. Leave my PC off for a change. 3rd generation Apple TV’s can be acquired on eBay for $20+.
David, can you use the Apple TV without connecting a tv? I have a newer version and the tv must be switched on (TV has remote connections box with Toslink). I’m still struggeling between Spotify (ease of use) and Apple Music (quality) to play with my Audiolab 6000 Play.
Hi Carel, just a thought. Can you use one of those fake hdmi sockets Mr Darko used with his mibox?
@@2HatHudders Thanks 👍🏻 totaly forgot that option.
I've been using the Node 2i for a while now. I started out running toslink out to a Schiit modi 3. Then I later took out the modi just using the DAC in the Node. I really didn't hear much difference so I eliminated a box. I am very happy with the sound so far. If I decide to add an external DAC in the future I may go with a Denafrips Ares. The Bluesound Node 2i is a very acceptable budget audiophile streamer.
The Schiit modi 3 wouldn't improve much over the node indeed.
I have the node 2i as well and was really pleased with its integrated DAC.
I eventually upgraded de DA conversion with the Chord Qutest and I could definitely hear the difference.
The Denafrips Ares should give you a pretty good upgrade as well especially on details retrieval and sound stage.
I use the Schiit Modi 3 and like it well enough, especially at its price point, and I can feed it difference sources (an iPAD via USB for Spotify, a older CD player via coax, and have a Toslink input still available for something else one day). Thinking of getting the new Node with its supposedly better DAC and putting the Modi 3 in my computer room/office to feed an older A/V receiver from the PC. Then yeah, long term, I might get a better external DAC for the Node...and that Denafrips Ares does look like an end game DAC for mere mortals.
Ahh, so you think a 4/500 DAC sound better than the bluesound?
Exactly the same as my findings. Decided the Modi did not improve the sound of my Node 2i significantly, so took it out of the loop. Luckily I already owned the Modi for computer based sound.
I have a Node 2i streaming to a Denafrips Ares II and you can definitely hear a significant improvement versus just using the DAC in the Node 2i. The DAC in the Node 2i is however pretty good and it is adequate if you are not streaming high quality resolution material. I love the Node 2i and I have heard several reviewers prefer the DAC implementation in it versus the new Node...I have not heard the Node, so I can't make a judgment on that!
Another great video! I am very impressed by the way you diplomatically ask audiophiles not to be condescending to noobs. We are all noobs in some context or other. Just because someone doesn’t understand something about how audio systems today work is no reason to demean them and the act of doing so says a lot about the person doing it rather than the victim. There are other subjects upon which the person being demeaned might well be a colossus of knowledge and wisdom.
John you have done a superb job with this video series. 20+ years ago it was less complicated I think than it is today. The options then were either a hifi-stacker-system, or pure separates. Today we have streaming which is great. We also have easy and simple products - hello Sonos. But if a person wants something more 'hifi' the options and possibilities are huge. You understand that this could be confusing to some people. The source(eg Spotify), device/phone, streamer, Dac, (pre-power amp), cables/interconnects, and speakers. An enthusiast will understand all of this - but for someone wanting to replace their Sonos One - not so. You try to help answer the question - what actually do I need to start my journey . Thanks. Great Work.
Ironic that the video is brought to us by Roon, which on its own solves a ton of the complex problems presented in the video. I use Tidal/Roon and Roon is my listening position remote control of my core, which is an iMac. No streamer needed. Unless you tell me I'm taking a meaningful fidelity hit by going iMac > DAC inside my preamp.
I think you might want to revise your position on airplay, since if you use the Apple Music app, and also have an Apple TV, the music app on an iPhone or iPad allows you to select to control the apple tv music app, then the apple tv is sending the stream to your AirPlay device, not the phone, essentially giving you your “connect” functionality. Underneath the airplay list of devices, you select “control other speakers and tvs” then the music app will give you a different queue.
I really appreciate the clarity of Mr. Darko’s explanations, even if I do end up feeling stupid.
Have really enjoyed these two vids, thank you.
Can we please have an intermediate or expert series on this as there’s still so much left to learn.
I’m also very interested in streaming music through a television through a TOSLINK into a DAC and then into my amp.
Hi, I think I would add one note regarding volume control, since if you use the node as a preamp you get volume control on your phone, which is what a lot of people have got accustomed to with Bluetooth speakers. Another thing I would add John is that most integrated amplifiers now include a DAC, so it gets a bit ridiculous paying for three of them.
It’s really nice to see very accessible explanations.
In my case, the use in real life, in a living room used by my young children, spouse, and myself is ease of use: Apple TV into TV with optical out to amp with built in DAC. It’s the most complex that’s user friendly to my 6 year old. I thought of adding a DAC, or having a separate source for streaming other than the Apple TV, but that would lead to moments where the wrong source is selected for my kids to get sound of Netflix “Papa? Papa? Can you come help me?”
And I like how the video built towards that simplest option, not what is almost always the case, add components and make it more complex pursuing HiFi.
This is pretty rudimentary, but I really appreciate that many of us just need a direction to go. This is way easier than the videos you have done with the Raspberry Pie and programming a chip. All doable. My main system is 45 years old. The 2 TV/music systems are 20 years old. The Node would be easy to add.
Genuinely love that royalty free Exodus soundalike
Time magazine's álbum of the century.
For myself and I'm sure for others, the easiest way to set this up is using my TV as the digital receiver. Most modern TV's are able to receive Airplay and Spotify Connect or similar for other apps like TH-cam.
I'm finding that since hooking up to nice speakers like this I'm really enjoying watching live recordings, concerts and music videos on youtube too.
“Audiophile gotcha(!)” made me laugh loudly 🤣 Love it!
I know this is an old video, but just an update - you can now send audio and video via Airplay from an iPhone/iPad (at the listening position) to a MacBook/Mac mini, you just need to turn on the option in the settings of the Mac to turn on Airplay receiver mode.
WELL DONE ! Indeed... so many ways to skin this proverbial 'cat'. My biggest issue is to ensure gapless playback AND ensure the stream is playing at the SAME RESOLUTION as the resolution of the source track. Also, I find that Node2i's DAC to be so much more inferior than any external DACs. I sure hope that it has improved with the NODE 2021 (not yet auditioned). I do have my eye out for their VAULT (2022??) someday. Thanks Jana and John for doing what you do !
Another really informative video John. As someone who is thinking of entering the streaming world for the first time these two videos have really helped. As you referred to, I don't have to go to the store and be dazzled by the sales pitch. Cheers mate, keep them coming.
What a humble speech at the end :)
great content and the delivery style is brilliant; well done!!!
Since your last Podcast episode I even more appreciate your work. Thanks a lot for your content.
I think this is a great series John, keep it up, it must surely help a lot of people.
Sir, thanks so much for carrying beginners along . You are the Grand Master.
Thank you, John. I would like to make a suggestion. When many think of "streaming," they think of bluetooth, and they might ask the question, "Why don't I just connect to my speakers with bluetooth and cut out all the streamer, DAC and amp?"
Similarly, perhaps you could mention speakers that have a streamer, DAC or amp built in?
Thank you, as always, for the videos!
+1 I’m using Klipsch The Fives active power speakers that all sources plug into, or Bluetooth directly, so no need for an external amp, preamp or DAC. Trying to get me head around source devices that step up from playing Bluetooth via my phone. I’m especially interested in offline playback of my iTunes library and Apple Music without relying on streaming since my rural USA internet is too spotty for a Spotify type service
I run my Node 2i with an external DAC which is RME DAC FS - the difference is huge! Without the external DAC, Node sounded much worse than my CD (old Rega Apollo). Now it sounds equal to the CD, if not better.
I’m in a similar boat with the ADI-2 as well, although I’m using an Apple TV 4K as the streamer instead of a Node. I use Apple Music as the streaming service, and I’ve think I’ve got lossless audio figured out? It’s not perfect, as Apple TV is only 24bit/48, but why am I still trying to search for 24bit/192??? Must be the audiophile in me? I wish Apple had a better solution like Spotify Connect (using a wireless device as the remote) while still retaining top audio quality by streaming the music directly into the streamer.
@@thumby8140 It’s pretty unlikely you’d hear the difference between 24/48 and 24/192. I’ve participated in a few fairly well run blind tests and could not differentiate between lossless and hi-res.
Regarding Airplay versus Spotify (or Tidal) Connect, Airplay has the advantage of enabling streaming from any sound source on the device, whereas “Connect” type streaming is limited to the particular service. This is a significant advantage and I believe is the reason Apple is not likely to offer a Connect-type streaming option.
It's interesting that you experienced that. I have upgraded my Bluesound Node 2i to use a LSPU, and it has made quite an improvement to the sound. To the point that I tried a Hugo2 as an external source on the Bluesound Node 2i, and couldn't pick a clear winner. Glad it has improved things for you.
You make a great point about getting or giving information to other people, I have noticed that some groups are not good at sharing,
I used to be a sales man so for me its second nature to share my findings.
I’m a beginner audiophile. About to buy some headphones and dragonfly dac to start listening to lossless apple music. Can’t wait till I have my own place so I can build a home hifi setup. Thanks Darko!
I am using an LG TV, which has Airplay, I output the audio using HDMI ARC, and Toslink, to the AV Receiver. The receiver and TV both has Bluetooth. But, the LG TV, has Airplay 2.0, I presume. I can connect to it directly from any iPhone 🙂
Would Lossless Apple Music work with the LG TV, sir, with Airplay 2.0 enabled? Does it output Hi-Res audio? If yes, how high up does the bitrate go, please? I do not have a dedicated DAC, or an amplifier, unfortunately.
From Phone > TV > Receiver > Speakers (all are using digital output).
Will this setup be enough? Or would I need to modify something?
Thank you so much in advance for any clarification.
This was an awesome video 👌
Thanks as a total beginner, it’s when I listen to your descriptions of sound characteristics, it’s like a foreign language.
Anyway I’m getting hooked, I’ve just got an Apple TV box for the TV and I might try to figure out how to rig it up to a decent streamer/amp/speaker system thing next, if it’s possible.
Great guide onde again!! In the meantime still waiting for Spotify HiFi...
Thank you John, it's a year seeing your channel, always very instructive episodes, always funny, and very good music recommendations! Keep up the good work!
Thank you so much Sir for the advice! I just bought a node a few days ago and am eagerly awaiting for it to come in!
I always love your content John and appreciate what you’re doing here.
A simple way, that I use, is an Apple TV 3 via Toshlink to my Denon receiver (140 W/ch). It plays Spotify & Apple Music (that I dont like the interface) gapless. Simple, cheap and good quality. Apple TV 4 do not have the Toshlink, so you have to buy the 3.
thanks, darko. love your tone and your content
Very good John! I'd consider myself to be an absolute novice audiophile. I had a hand-me-down JVC separates system as a teenager and - 30 years later - I still know good sound when I hear it (even though my hearing has faded somewhat!) I have built two budget systems - both including Bluesound products. On my desktop, I have a Node 2i feeding a homemade amp (MINIDSP inside!) driving 2.1 speakers. In my lounge, I have a Powernode 2 driving a pair of ceiling speakers and a sub. I think the key point with Bluesound products is that they offer quality sound whilst remaining simple to use for the non-geeks in my household. I have even programmed presets so that they can press numbered buttons on the Bluesound remote to directly access their Spotify playlists without having to touch their phones. Couldn't be easier!
Thanks again John, well done! Would an AppleTV allow to stream directly from the ATV and not the iphone?
Thanks John - still enjoying pretty much every video you produce. Somehow you manage to get the mix of product views, b-roll, and speaking perfect every time. I also truly like the way you approach requesting respectful conduct in the comments. If only you had some authority to oversee the facebook groups…lol! Take care.
Your videos are really helpful John, I have watched so many of them in the last couple of days. The one solution I have not found addressed (including Google searches) is this: From my couch, can I use an iPhone to stream, via Airplay, the CD-quality ALAC files that I have stored on a 1Tb SSD to my Airplay-enabled network receiver? Right now the only way I have found to do this is through my MBP (with the SSD connected), which is a pain when I am moving about the house. Thanks as always and keep those videos coming.
So I found a solution: Stratospherix's MusicStreamer. It has been working seamlessly so far. The browser is quite functional and once indexed, the d-base stays intact. It has a lot of features I have yet to explore but as a far as meeting my goal,, it seems like a very good solution.
Maybe one more thing: If you like what the Bluesound Node does, but don't have an amp yet... just get the Powernode. Are there better amps? Yes. But the Powernode is extremely convenient and the price tag is quite reasonable for everything you get. I have the Audiolab 6000A and the latest Powernode, and while the Audiolab seems to sound a little better, the Powernode gets louder and has most use cases covered.
Ok. Ya got me!!! So, the elephant that you led into the room by it’s trunk is…Which is the better dac? The one in the Node or the one in the Cambridge?🇨🇦
We’ll, thank god for this and it’s previous video. I didn’t have a baldy clue about streaming. Thank you!!
John have you done a video on speaker placement? I realize every room/condition is different but maybe, if you’ve not already done so, you could show how you came up with the solution you are using in your room with those sound absorbing wall pieces? Cheers mate
And thank you again! You explain the inter-workings of streaming for layman so well. Thank you, thank you very much! (in my best Elvis voice). Please keep these lessons up!
Thanks. As a bit of a newbie I got a lot from this
The roon-ed the intro!
This video is a year old but I have an interesting question that can hopefully be answered.
I recently purchased the ELAC Navi B51 powered bookshelfs. These will be used as my desktop speaker setup. I am pairing them with a Cambridge audio dacmagic 100 via Kimber analog RCA from elacs to dacmagic then connecting via usb from dacmagic to my computer. Not sure if this dac is good enough....
My question is if I want to also have the option for network streaming should I add in a blue sound node in the mix. Meaning connect a toslink cable from bluesound to the dacmagic or get rid of the dacmagic and use just bluesound for network streaming and connect the bluesound to my PC via toslink...
I agree about audiophiles not dealing with none or new / beginning audiophiles. Shortly after getting my drivers license I was already into audio but still knew next to nothing. Remember back then the internet wasn't around 1977 . So anyway I walk into a shop and because I was just a kid and knew nothing they gave me what I thought were snooty answers. They couldn't take time away from drinking there coffee and didn't have time to guide me along by answering some beginner questions they had to get back to drinking coffee leaving me standing there. WELL I never went back and now they were one of the first to close. I don't have any shops close to me under fifty miles. In fact there's one closer in Canada and I'm sure they would be nicer.
Learning a lot from your content, John, so thank you! So, if I’m starting from scratch, how can I evaluate the quality of the DAC in the streamer to determine if I should also buy an external DAC to connect it to? I see in another video that you recommend adding an external DAC to the Wiim Mini, even though it also has one internal. How can I tell when an external is needed without having to buy and try many products and product combinations?
I like how slow and simply you explain things. Go for a walk with you and one will learn from you.
Hi John. Thanks so much for putting these videos together for people, like myself, who are new to audio streaming. After many many months of deliberation, I've finally taken the leap and recently bought a Cambridge CXN V2 streamer. I've owned a Musical Fidelity M6si amp and B&W CM9 S2 floor standers for a while - so I'm running everything through those. I though that I'd researched this all pretty thoroughly, but what I wasn't fully aware of was the integration of my Apple music subscription with the CXN V2. It works, but I'm wondering whether I should either swap out the CXN V2 for something that's more conducive to Apple Music(?) ....or possibly change my subscription over to Spotifi or Tidal, etc. I'd prefer gapless and as high-res as possible, if possible - of course!
I appreciate that things might have moved on a bit since you made this video but any advice would be very much appreciated.
So, we know that the hardware is good (so is my speed - 100MB+ down / 20MB up) but the dimensions of my house don't always seem to allow me to carry my iPhone (7) around with me without losing connection - so change service?
Don't want to push things but the CM9's are in a large(ish) lounge with 3m high ceilings and Parquet flooring - so pretty 'hard'. Can you recommend some 'warmer' speakers also...?
Thanks again for your work.
Great Video! Thank you! Been watching your videos through the weekend as I am in the need of a solution for a new, not to big room. And the Kef LS 55 meta and wireless is probably what I will get. Seeing this video though makes me think, if I can choose either, for something like you’re describing, wouldn’t the wireless be a clear choice? Or, am I missing something that would make want a dedicated amp, a dac/bluenode kinda device and passive speakers? I also want to connect a TV… Love to hear your opinion 😊👍 (Oh, and that lack of “functionality/cooperation” in apple’s functionality… wow! I had no idea… That’s a loss of points in my opinion and I am an all out apple guy…)
I have read your positive review of the BiFrost DAC, Schitt Audio; however their customer service says that it is not built for a Bluetooth receiver, and it could blow a fuse. They've not explained why, but I have to trust them for it, so will look at other comparable DACs. I like the idea of streaming through a Chromebook, and suspect whatever noise it contributes would be hard to hear....just like everything these days is a little hard to hear.
Really excellent job with these beginner videos. So much of this important detail is tough to figure out from manufacturers marketing.
Nice job. You give so much time and effort on beginner video. I love that! ❤️
How can I find the acoustic panels you have on your back wall..
Hey Jon, I’m thinking about upgrading my current two slice toaster and need your advice.
I’m mostly a ‘soft white /super thick’ guy but more recently in the mornings I’ve begun trialing artisanal sourdough and pumpernickel loaves (with mixed results!)
Is a two slice model sufficient or should I consider future proofing with a four (or even six )?
What are the best settings?
How essential is a front loading removable crumb tray?
I realise my request maybe slightly wide of your field of expertise but I’d really appreciate a definitive answer by next Thursday as I’d hate to miss out on the Black Friday sales
I would appreciate your presence in future comment sections.
Toaster? A Sheep tallow candle (which gives a mellower flame than wax, as any fule know) will blow the toaster out of the water. The time spent waiting for the toast to warm up wull just go to involve you in the toast and heighten your anticipation.
@@conkerman01 That’s a bit hardcore, as a first step to high end toast I’d recommend an open fire and a toasting fork. :)
@@andygilbert1877 I personally am a purist.
I built a firepit just for toast in my kitchen.
But be carefull what metals you use.
You want pure Iron! None of that aluminium or ceramic stuff.
It makes that small but important difference taste!
I suppose it depends on whether you can live with low res digital toast, or want old school analog toast.
Excellent video for beginners. Thank you
Thanks for your videos they have been incredibly valuable to me
Not sure if this could be classed as a beginners question but I will ask it just the same. If I want to stream Spotify connect (this is the only service I currently use) using a Raspberry Pi4 is it better to use an external DAC connected via USB or buy a DAC HAT and connect directly to my amp via RCA? I also realise that there are other HAT options for providing alternatives to USB for connecting to an external DAC but that will increase the cost. Or do I have other streaming options for my budget which is between £150 and £200 including the cost of the Pi4 and power supply and case etc.
this was such a helpful series!!! thank you so much for taking the time and the patience to doing it 😊
Super content - thanks! Not sure how I missed episode 2/2 on this streaming topic, but glad I found it. I was an early adopter of Sonos, so have a bunch of units around. You mentioned them, but might want to include them as an option: I have an old Sonos Connect into a Shitt DAC (the basic $99 model) into a low power tube amp so I can stream direct from Spotify, my home NAS full lof MP3s, Pandora, and other services… I think it’s a valid and versatile option.
I have more or less the same set-up as you except Sonos Connect is directly connected to my integrated Rogue Audio Sphinx amp. Do you think adding Schitt DAC will make a whole lot or difference or do you recommend a better DAC? Which amp are you using?
What’s wrong with the stream traveling through the phone?
Great video. I’ve got a Linn Majik DSM, the Linn unit can connect to Spotify, Tidal etc for lossless. But I trying to find a way to get Apple Music as it’s best for coverage for my genre. I know can Airplay but it is messy with phone calls and walking out room and can’t volume control etc
I appreciate this video even if I am not the target audience because hopefully it will help grow the community. Good work.
Thanks for the video John. However, whats the point having a high end DAC while your audio streaming service like Spotify only offers low quality audio file when connecting via airplay 2 or bluetooth
Great information John, however, I cannot find any information about setting up my Xiaomi Mi Box S to the internet using a dummy HDMI plug and my iPhone and streaming music via my DAC using an optical cable between headphone socket on Mi Box?
How about (if known) Spotify hi-fi vs Amazon HD?
I'm an Amazon Prime member. I have Spotify's free version. As far as I know Spotify free and paid versions are commercials, were sound quality is similar, which means Spotify hi-fi will be on the paid version. Now I have the Cambridge Audio Azur 851n preamp which also has a built-in streamer, but only certain streaming services; like Spotify, but not Amazon. I also have a NVIDIA Shield TV Pro, which does both. So far I've been streaming Spotify and TH-cam Music through my NVIDIA, and using my Cambridge as a digital preamp. As a FYI I'm an Android user.
So, if I'm to upgrade to a paid service, which would be the best bang for the buck, Amazon HD or Spotify hi-fi?
Hi, for beginners and intermediaries ... Which DAC would you recommend at this moment. Thanks
Thanks, I know that this is an old video but I just think is a great video for beginners.
I have a Hegel h 95 and it’s not wireless and this video help me a lot. Thanks
THANKS JOHN 🤗 WE LOVE 😍 YOUR MODESTY AND YOUR ATTITUDE AND YOUR EXPLAINING THINGS FOR THE NEW ONES AND US OLDER ONES…ESPECIALLY US TECHNICALLY CHALLENGED 😉😍😍😍
Thanks for another great video on streaming services. I'm still confused a bit about capacity of Air Play. What I have read:
1. Stream from an iPhone through Air Play 2 to NODE = AAC @ 256 kbps
2. Stream from a Macbook through Air Play 2 to NODE = 16 bit 44.KHz (ALAC / Apple Lossless, but never gets max to 24 bit/48 KHz)
3. There is no way to stream Hi-Res Lossless 24 bit 192 KHz between an Apple device and NODE or any other receiver. You have to use cable and additional DAC.
Am I right, or I mixed something?
I’m pretty sure iPhone streams lossless airplay too. Bluetooth is aac 256 tho. And Spotify is only 320 equivalent anyway. Best you can Do w phone is amazon, tidal, apple etc.
Point 1. Correct, Apple Music app doesn’t stream lossless.
Point 2. Not sure.
Point 3. Correct, camera connector kit, usb cable and DAC required. I just use a long usb cable so can still control it from the sofa 😊
@@ianmearsphoto Point 1. Actually it does. AirPlay is limited to 24bit/48kHz but Apple Music app itself can stream up to 24bit/192kHz but you need an external DAC for it
Sorry meant to say AirPlay is limited to 16bit/44.1kHz
Why are you going from the Node to the DAC? I thought the node was also a DAC? Can you go to an integrated Amp from the Node? I'm so confused.
Great!.... Xiaomi Mi Box ---> amplifier VS Nodo---> amplifier ( both without external DAC)...is there much difference in sound quality? I understand that the Xiaomi Mi Box has an internal DAC
Thanks
Great video. Luckily, my tv has airplay built in. So I airplay to that. And toslink from that to my DAC/preamp to my amp. Works great. I guess an issue is that the TV will be on while I do so but I don't mind having the cover art on that. And I can use my phone to control the music. Works great. And I believe airplay is capable of 24-bit / 48 kHz audio. I don't have the ears to differentiate anything higher than that
For Apple Music, ditch the raspberry computer, get a used apple AirPort Express 2, £30 later you have an airplay 2 receiver with 3.5mm/toslink output.
Hi..
What phone is better to use wirelessly?
Android phones (LG) or iPhone?
If this is the beginners guide to streaming I would hate to see the advance guide.
When I retired- no PC-no laptop-no iPad… although I have iPhone. But it’s all Greek to me…
The way things are moving techwise you need to get the internet into your house on something more flexible and cheaper than your phone. Are you saying you’ve only got the phone to access the internet with at the moment?
So which dac better?) Cambridge audio or Node integrated?:))))
I have a NAD 325bee, castle howard S3 speakers and schiit bitfrost dac. I play most of my music using my laptop. I'm considering the node as an option for streaming. Question: should I keep using my dac which I like, or connect the node directly to my amp?
TH-cam videos...
I like watching/listening to TH-cam music videos. Currently I'm using a Azulle stick computer plugged into a 23' monitor. USB out to my Hegel H95 and then Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary speakers. I have the highest audio quality selected on the sound on the Azulle, 96 khz is reflected in the display on the H95. I usually listen to 1080p video, but at times it's less.
How can I get the best audio quality from my TH-cam listening? I'm thinking this may be as good as it gets.
I would like the Bluesound products much better if their form factor was more like a conventional hifi component - meaning a vertical display. The way it is you have to have table top (desktop) location to use the controls on the unit. Not everyone has that available.
Please don’t pull or disconnect cables by the cable. Use the connector at the end of the cable. Unless it’s some rugged heavy duty cable, it will shorten its life, and potentially cause failure down the line.