Tidal - better with MQA DAC or not?

[xirtam2005]

I'm not here to discuss the merits or lack of merit with MQA. Have a straightforward question about Tidal/MQA: If you are listening to Tidal Hifi (which is now based on MQA), does modern Tidal streaming sound better with a DAC with built-in MQA, or does it make no difference with running Tidal on computer app and USB to a non-MQA DAC.

I'm considering Qobuz to stream for critical listening on another thread, but this threat is to understand benefits, if any, of using an MQA compatible DAC with Tidal.

 

[DimitryZ]

I have 4 DACs - two with MQA and two without.

Tidal sounds fine with all of them, but maybe MQA albums are a bit better on an MQA aware DAC.

Gustard X16 is a fine choice for an MQA DAC. I also really like the SMSL M300 mkii and it's MQAless.

 

[BlackTalon]

probably depends on the quality of your headphones or speakers. I added a ShenzhenAudio EX5 to my computer setup a month or so back, and I enjoy listening a bit more now. I can't really do a test against non-MQA though.

 

[Eddy H.]

I'm sure it would make a slight difference.

 

[BDWoody]

, does modern Tidal streaming sound better with a DAC with built-in MQA, or does it make no difference with running Tidal on computer app and USB to a non-MQA DAC.

I have not directly compared my MQA DACs with non-MQA on the same system in a controlled way, but have never noticed or been moved to investigate.

I wouldn't expect to.

I have both Tidal and Qobuz. Never noticed audible differences between them either.