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Sound Quality of red book CDs vs.streaming

I’ve found that the SQ of my red book CDs exceeds that of streaming using the identical recordings for comparison. (I’m not including hi res technology here.)
I would like to stop buying CDs, save money, and just stream, but I really find I enjoy the CDs more because of the better overall sonic performance.
 I stream with Chromecast Audio using  the same DAC (Schiit Gumby) as I play CDs through.
I’m wondering if others have had the same experience
128x128rvpiano
kalali's avatar
kalali
1,645 posts
 
Results depend on the CD transport and the cables used. Chromecast Audio will sound better if you insert a reclocker inline with the DAC.  
michaelgreenaudio's avatar
michaelgreenaudio
643 posts
 

I'm a Red Book man all the way!

mg

rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
938 posts
 
Reubent,

As I said above, I’m not talking about hi res files.
it doesn’t matter what platform I use — Tidal,, Qubuz, Spotify,  the result’s the same.
Actual Red book CDs were compared 
rvpiano's avatar
rvpiano OP
938 posts
 
Kalali,

Could you you explain what a reclocker is, and how to install it?

Thank you.
shadorne's avatar
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shadorne
7,333 posts
 
This sounds like you are running into a limitation of your DAC or Chromecast. 

Streaming of Redbook should be the same as CD if the devices you use are working optimally and settings are for bit perfect reproduction, after all it is the same file.
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