Hello Everyone,
I am researching what is needed to add a music streamer to my system. I used to stream FLAC files and internet radio from a NAS using a Squeezebox Touch, but I removed it from my system years ago. Given my recent early stage Dementia diagnosis I will be hiring someone unless it is a rather simple addition. Any questions or recommendations are welcome.
Thank you!
(I am intrested in 2-Channel music)
System
Preamp: Yamaha CX-A5100
• Amplifiers:
• McIntosh MC402
• McIntosh MC501
• McIntosh MC252
• Source Devices:
• Oppo BDP-105 Blu-ray player
• Sony EV-S7000 NTSC player
• Subwoofer: Triad 1,000-watt powered subwoofer
• Speakers:
• Legacy Calibre (front speakers)
• Triad wall-mounted speakers (surround setup)
• Cables:
• AudioQuest Carbon 48 HDMI (Apple TV 4K to Yamaha)
• AudioQuest Pearl HDMI (Oppo to Yamaha)
• Other Equipment:
• Mpower surge protector
• Control4 Halo Touch remote
• Streaming Services: Heavy usage of Tidal (no streamer currently decided)
• System Type: 5.1 surround sound (no Atmos support)
Do you still have an interest in listening to your Flac files or do you only want to stream Tidal?
Have you tried Roon before? Are you looking for the Roon experience or just want a streamer that works with the Tidal app / Tidal Connect?
Are all your amps connected to the same pre-amp in the same room? (I assume some of those are to drive the surround channels)
Do you have a specific budget in mind?
Sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I would assume that for the long term it is important for you to have an experience that is intuitive and simple so that you can enjoy the music with minimal headache. For me, Roon is the most natural interface to enjoy music.
However, it is important to have a very stable setup (music server, streamer, internet connection, internal network, and even power grid). It’s great that you can bring someone in to help you set everything up. You might need more help from time to time (hopefully very rarely), and you need to have the patience for that.
I am sure the community will give you some great suggestions once you have answered the initial questions.
I’m still interested in listening to my FLAC files, but streaming services like Tidal will be my main source moving forward. I’d like the option to include FLAC files if possible. I’ve used Roon before, and it was fine until I started organizing my FLAC library, which became a bit overwhelming. I’m not sure if I want the full Roon experience again or just a streamer that works seamlessly with the Tidal app or Tidal Connect. Simplicity might be key for me.
All my amps are connected to the same preamp (Yamaha CX-A5100) in a different room than my listening area, with cables running under the floor. Some amps are for the surround channels, and others drive my front speakers and subwoofer. The system is designed for both surround sound and stereo listening.
I don’t have a specific budget in mind but would like to keep it under $1,000. I’m open to hearing suggestions at various price points that align with my setup and needs. ChatGPT
Thank you @Adeeb for your help.
You have a very nice system. I love the Legacy Audio Calibres.
I helped my neighbor set up a couple of WiiM Ultra streamers, although setup is extremely easy, especially if you have an available wired network connection. I would suggest connecting it to your Yamaha CX-A5100 via either COAX or TOSLINK S/PDIF. This will enable your preamp to continue handling bass management, etc.