Squeezebox Vs Duet


Which has better sound quality?
I really like the duet remote but if sound quality is better on the sb3 I could go that way and add the duet remote later.
Current 2 ch system is an Arcam se8 to Modded Lite Dac Ah to B&K reference 20. I am looking to make a move up in sound quality and at the same time add the convenience of pc based audio.
Thanks
Steve
scoly1

Showing 6 responses by tvad

I'm using an iTouch as a Squeezebox (and iTunes) remote using the iPeng application.

It's "Da Bomb"! Really outstanding, IMO.

Also, my iTouch sounds better than my six year old 30MB iPod.

The Squeezebox sounds great, IMO, running either direct from the analog outputs or into my APL Denon 3910's DAC via the digital output. It's not reference quality, but darned close.
Scoly1, I was just commenting on what others had mentioned earlier in the
thread.

However, since you mention that an iTouch would be just another remote for
the Squeezebox, I believe there are some definite differences between the
iTouch and Squeezebox remote that make an iTouch the better choice
beyond the "cool factor". I understand these differences may not matter to
you, but they might matter to others reading this thread.

For example, with the Squeezebox remote, you need to be able to see the
Squeezebox's screen to navigate through the menu. With an iTouch, since the
it mimics the SqueezeCenter web interface (using iPeng) you can be anywhere
in your house and use the iTouch's screen to navigate through your music
choices. That makes an iTouch a clear winner, IMO. Of course, if you're only
going to be changing music while you're in the same room as your
Squeezebox, then it doesn't matter and the Squeezebox remote is perfectly
adequate.

Beyond that, if you are going to use the digital output on either the
Squeezebox or Duet, I believe you'd be hard pressed to hear a difference
betwen the two devices, which is why I believe Doug_kraz mentioned using a
Squeezebox/iTouch combo versus a Duet since the cost would end up about
the same.

Anyway, have fun! The Paradisea+ is a terrific DAC, and it will definitely add
musicality to either the Squeezebox or Duet.
Why would you have to look at Squeezebox's screen to
use the remote?
Kana813 (Reviews | Threads | Answers)

Because the SB3's remote is only buttons, unlike the Duet's remote, which has a
screen.

SB3 - screen on player, no screen on remote
Duet - no screen on player, screen on remote
Given the $399 price of a Duet (and less if purchased used), versus the
~$200-$250 (used) cost of an SB3, the Duet seems like a no-brainer, IMO.

Unless you can find a SB3/Boulder modded ELPAC power supply package for
around $300. The power supply is supposed to make a substantial
improvement, especially regarding the digital output of the player.
Is there a specific PS model number at Acopian one should search for?

Are you saying the Bolder Elpac power supply mods are a joke, or the Bolder Squeezebox digital mods are a joke? Would you be more specific about why you have this opinion?

Thanks.
Thanks.

I have no dog in this hunt, and I've never purchased anything from Bolder,
nor have I communicated with Bolder about any product, but I have to say it's
not helpful for those seeking to do an evaluation, or make a buying decision, to
declare someone's product or service "a joke" without offering any reason to
support the statement.