Streaming Spotify through Gramofon - improvements?

[Berty bass]

This is similar to Latteman's separate thread but I felt it might be digressing slightly if I posted there as it's specific to my set-up. I currently stream Spotify from my iPad or Surface via a Gramofon device ( https://gramofon.com/) and through mt Rega Ellicit-R amplifier. Whilst I'm happy enough with the sound 'as is' I'd be interested to know whether there's any lowish-cost options to improve the set up. It's only appears to be the mini-jack I use to connect it to my Ellicit-R. Thanks all.

[Fretless]

Looking at pics of the Gramofon, it doesn't seem to have a digital output so an external DAC is out of the question. Device looks like a simplified Sonos Connect - if you could find one cheap, then there are more output options.

A better PSU might improve SQ slightly.

Edit: a wired LAN connection will also give better SQ. Less chance of drop-outs or RF interference.

[Berty bass]

Thanks Fretless, I suspected it may not be possible to connect an external DAC. So, basically, a different device that offers the opportunity to improve it with an external DAC or PSU then?

[slinger]

I've just had a quick nose around with Google, and the alternative to the Gramofon I've seen mentioned most often is the Chromecast.

[Fretless]

If you are sticking with Spotify then I wouldn't get too carried away in trying to improve the SQ.

Spotify uses a lossy format called Ogg Vorbis which is like FLAC but more compressed. When I started getting into file-based audio I compared the different formats available and Ogg is significantly better then MP3 at similar bit-rates (MP3's sound flat and lifeless, Ogg has a fuller, richer sound). Spotify (certainly the Premium setting) does sound pretty good but it isn't going to compare with the FLAC streaming from Qobuz and Tidal.

I would try to get hold of a 2nd-hand Sonos Connect if you can. It outputs analogue RCA (fixed and variable volume) and digital out (optical & coax - also with possibility to adjust volume remotely). There is an extra RCA line-in, so you can use it as a preamp and attach a CD-player. UI is excellent, sound quality is good to very good. Wired and wireless network connection (can also be used as a network hub).

Only drawback: Sonos equipment won't help much if you are looking for Hi-Res audio as 24-bit signals are truncated and processed as 16bit.

And they look pretty smart too.

[Berty bass]

Great stuff - many thanks, Fretless...One of these days we must exchange details about our respective fretless basses for I too am a 4 string twanger and owner of one without those pesky bits of wire across the neck (as well, admittedly, as a couple with them)!

[Fretless]

One of these ...



Cort B4FL with mahogany body. Cort are a Korean firm who manufacture for several 'big-name' brands, their own designs are top-class.

Sorely neglected of late - more a listener than a player these days (too damn busy as well).

Edit: (guitar-freak note) spotted this photo on the web but see that it is an older passive model, my bass has 5 pots and a passive/acive switch - although I only really use passive mode, just for that natural 'woody' sound.

[Berty bass]

Mine is this - Zoot Custom:

Mahogany body too with flamed maple top. 3 band Noll preamp. Sounds superb.

[Fretless]

Yummy - I'm jealous.

[slinger]

Here's mine...



It's a Hudosn PBS4 FL-NOP