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Best Music Streaming Hardware Options

I’m in the process of building my system around my Apogee Acoustics Duetta Signature Series II electrostatic speakers. I just bought a BAT VK-600 amp w/ BAT pack and will soon purchase a BAT preamp. Currently, I stream Spotify at their highest 320 kbps compressed mp3 format, but I know I’ll need to get to at least CD/SACD quality. Apogees are very unforgiving towards source material that is lacking. Looking for recommendations from fellow audiophiles in two areas...
1. What is the best way for me to tackle Hi-Res streaming (Tidal, etc) from my iPhone over WIFI/Bluetooth (not sure if this is a good option compared to a player that does the streaming), cd/maybe SACD playback/upconvert? An example I’m thinking of is an all-in-one player such as Sony produces (at least as of a year ago was around $2k new).
2. Any recommendations for a tight budget are ideal. I would be looking for a preowned unit. I realize this portion will probably end up being the weakest link in the chain since my budget is tight, but trying to minimize impact as much as possible while being able to continue my obsession of discovering new music constantly like I do currently with Spotify.
Thanks in advance!
parker65310
sunnyd
8 posts
 
+3 on the Bluesound Node2. If you are on a REALLY tight budget , the previous generation, the Node N100, is available on Amazon at $300 and for less 2nd hand. It will still sound really good on the Tidal MQA files. If your budget allows it, another (significant) step up would be a Lumin D1 streamer which may be available for around $1K second hand, if one can be found. The Lumin will upsample and upgrade the sound on non-MQA files as well.
elevick
2,439 posts
 
I use my phone for Tidal and run it through a Chord Hugo.  The hugo has inputs for a mini usb or can stream bluetooth.  Now that Hugos are going for under $1k I consider them a steal.  The Hugo sound to me is much richer and smoother than the the other Chords.
parker65310 OP
24 posts
 
All great info all. I do more research based on your recommendations and let you know if I more questions. Lots to absorb before I come up with a proper plan. I first need to get a BAT preamp lined-up. I’m just not sure if making the amp section of my NAD C 372 passive and running the BAT VK-600 through it is going to satisfy me enough to delay buying a preamp before a streaming mechanism. Any input in that regard is appreciated.
genesis777
59 posts
 
The Oppo Sonica is a nice streamer.

mtraesbo
15 posts
 
I use a Raumfeld streamer into a Musicial Fidelity DAC for streaming from Tidal. Works perfect. The streamer cost 199 EUR. It is connected by cable to the router to provide HiFi quality from Tidal.

Raumfeld is coming with a new streamer shortly (called Teufel streamer). The specs are not released. Price is 299 EUR.

I am contemplating upgrading my DAC to the new Chord Qutest. Price is around 1500 $.
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