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Music Server with no DAC?

Why doesn't Logitech or Sonos create a version of what they have with no DAC? Who wants to buy 2 DACs? Many of us already have DACs. I would love to get into a Sonos, but all I want is digital out. Similarly, I like the idea of the Logitech Transporter, but how about no DAC and drop the price in half or a bit more? Just have AES/EBU, S/PDIF and maybe optical out...

I think there would be a big market for that because who wants to buy 2 of something when they don't need to, and particularly when people are particular about their DACs and don't want the one in the Music Server.
lightminer
tvad
9,467 posts
 
Just thinking... This area is still so new, in 2 years I'm sure all of this will be straightforward and be of very high quality.
Lightminer (System | Threads | Answers)

In two years, the gear presently on the market will seem like the Flintstones' mobile in comparison.
jdoris
852 posts
 
Tvad and others: Any thoughts yet on the "future proof" PS Audio PefectWave DAC? Seems like an alternative to the Transporter worth considering. Certainly an unnerving time to invest in digital sources . . . .

John
tvad
9,467 posts
 
My thought is that there is no such thing as future proof when it comes to digital.

The history of digital electronics is proof.
mapman's avatar
mapman
15,679 posts
 
Nothing digital is "future proof".

It will continue to get better and better over time.
swampwalker's avatar
swampwalker
5,132 posts
 
So, for example, in the present, Media-Monkey, Bryston DAC, 24/96 downloads, Laptop w/external HD, should completely kill the Transporter at a cost of just 300 or so more depending on details.

From a cost standpoint, yes, IF you already own the Bryston DAC. If not, that's an extra $2K for the DAC, which is the list for the Transporter which can be bought for several hundred less. Not sure why you are convinced it would "kill the Transporter", but I've never heard the Bryston. The Transporter also allows your music server/laptop part of your home network (wi-fi or ethernet), can stream to other locations on the network, and has internet radio & music services built-in.

The reviews on the Bryston are very impressive but that really does not answer your initial question. I still think that the elimination of the DAC is not a big cost saver and if you want all the functionality of the Transporter, you can always take a digital stream from its outputs.
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