What's the point of a Streamer if you have a good DAC and a computer?

[Sir Ken Smith OBE]

Genuine question. Is there a benefit to buying a streamer if you already have a laptop or mini PC with a good DAC?

Perhaps not. Perhaps I've just answered my own question.

 

[Kenneth Fernandes]

If the DAC is powered directly using the PC’s power supply only, then it’s great to connect the DAC directly only to the laptop and not a mini PC or Desktop as both have switching power supplies. As the sound quality of connecting and powering the DAC using a battery powered laptop is exceptionally high. In this case you might not require a streamer if you could use the laptop and DAC for your main Hi-Fi setup.
A streamer though would still have to be connected to an amplifier and a DAC, depends on what type of streamer you are using, with cables.

A dedicated all-in-one Streaming Amplifier powered with an inbuilt battery and being able to connect to any pair of bookshelf/floor standing loud speakers and a sub woofer is the future really!

 

[nads]

You don’t have to use the computer.

 

[Kenneth Fernandes]

You don’t have to use the computer.

Yes, the all-in-one already has one. And any newly launched Music apps can be installed as well on the device.

 

[abacus]

Apart from connivence and looking better in the rack, none whatsoever.
Providing you purchase a quality DAC then it doesn't matter what type of computer you connect it to, as it will filter out any distortions from the computer and re-clock the signal. (If it doesn't then don't buy it)

Bill

 

[Friesiansam]

Genuine question. Is there a benefit to buying a streamer if you already have a laptop or mini PC with a good DAC?

Perhaps not. Perhaps I've just answered my own question.

PC plus headphone amp with DAC, works for me. Makes finding content easy with a world of streaming services in easy reach, as you are not limited to the services supported by any particular streamer.

 

[Friesiansam]

Providing you purchase a quality DAC then it doesn't matter what type of computer you connect it to, as it will filter out any distortions from the computer and re-clock the signal. (If it doesn't then don't buy it)

Asynchronous USB is the thing to look for. If a DAC has that, it controls the timing when you connect via USB.