Getting the best from Streaming music

[TheMarlin]

So. Quick update.
The Apple TV I was using was bought from eBay, but locked in conference mode. I just left it like that, as I only intended to use it to stream music.

It was very range sensitive. This week, managed to do a factory resent on the Apple TV, set it up properly, linked to my account and connected to my router. It’s made a big difference to the quality of the audio I’m getting.
Instead of a Bluetooth connect, it’s now Wi-fi, and is no longer range sensitive, and the dynamic range much improved.

I might still build the Raspberry Pi streamer though, could be fun

[terrybooth]

So. Quick update.
The Apple TV I was using was bought from eBay, but locked in conference mode. I just left it like that, as I only intended to use it to stream music.

It was very range sensitive. This week, managed to do a factory resent on the Apple TV, set it up properly, linked to my account and connected to my router. It’s made a big difference to the quality of the audio I’m getting.
Instead of a Bluetooth connect, it’s now Wi-fi, and is no longer range sensitive, and the dynamic range much improved.

I might still build the Raspberry Pi streamer though, could be fun

Blutooth is designed for short-range transmission, typically less than 10 metres. I have no idea what it's limitations are in terms of dynamic range and bandwidth but I'd guess they're limited since it's designed with devices with tiny speakers in mind.

On the Chromecast, there's a switch for 'Full Dynamic Range' - it's off by default but, if you hardwire (3.5mm stereo jack) to it then you can turn it on. I'm guessing a similar difference to what you are hearing.

[29mile]

Considering having a go at a Raspberry pi project. Would prefer to use my offboard Chinese £5 dac. I want to try to use a couple of old NVA 300va psu,s for the pi itself and dac to see how good it could be. Is a Pi 3 good enough to start with ? Assume I need a spdif hat ? Will this need another psu or just run of the pi supply ?
Many thanks

[Fretless]

Pi3B+ is the current standard model. Best choice for an SPDIF HAT to start with is the Hifiberry Digi+ PRO. Power supply for the Pi should output 5V at a minimum of 2A.
Pi units sound noticeably better with linear PSU's.

I had one running into a cheap Chinese DAC (while it worked) and it sounded quite impressive. Now waiting for new DAC to arrive from Aliexpress.

[keepitsimplestupid]

Just added a transformer output stage to my pi stack. Sounds great, a little smoother than the opamp iv setup. Theres loads of playing to be done with them

[slinger]

For the Volumio guys - the latest update (2.598) now gives one the option to "Enable Volumio 3 Experimental User Interface." There's a switch at the bottom of the "Appearance" tab to turn it on. I've just run the update straight over the top of my existing installation, reloaded my modded config.txt and all is well.

[EDIT]
New interface abandoned. It seems about as fragile as Trump's ego. Mystery reboots, no reboot (once) when I actually wanted to. A message telling me I needed to connect a Raspberry Pi. It's too hot to bugger about. I'll be interested to find out if there's any difference for people with a standard config.txt

[NSNO2021]

Brilliant and inspiring thread. Once autumn comes I will be having a go. Before I do I need to cover off my streaming newbie question. I currently use an Activo CT 10 for streaming Tidal - I am correct in assuming the Pi etc will replace the CT 10 or is it more a case of augmenting it ? Thanks Paul

[Fretless]

Just installed the Volumio update mentioned above.

1) had trouble with my Allo Digione Signature player and needed to install via a new SD card.
2) tried the experimental UI which is fine on an Android phone. Not so easy on a PC. Switched back to standard UI.
3) Update ran smoothly on Pi's with Allo Digione and Hifiberry Digi+ Pro boards.