Does Streamer Matter when using External DAC?

[JustJones]

Back to the OP's question, so the insinuation is if you tested multiple streamer transports, all with fixed audio/no EQ or filters, connected to the same DAC with the same cable that they would sound identical?

As long as the app the streamer uses simply moves the bits which they should and everything else being equal I doubt anyone can tell a difference with the understanding of proper listening setup.

 

[JustJones]

I've heard streamers from a few thousand dollars to a raspberry pi4 as Roon endpoints and could never hear any difference. Of course I'm old and don't worry about such things.

 

[ahofer]

And if they didn't , at least one of them isn't worth considering.

“Broken” might be the right term. Although some filter options seem to be audible, mostly for younger listeners.

 

[antcollinet]

Sorry yes, optical on Mini, coax on Pro is the only variable. Yes, wi-fi and no EQ on either. Neither set to fixed resolution. This was just one example I know of but yes, I hear small differences between them feeding the same DAC.

Even if perfectly matched - if you listen knowing which one is playing you'll probebly hear a difference. That difference won't be in the sound waves, it will be in the brain. That is how we are wired. What we perceive is as much about what the brain predicts, as what is actually sensed.