My ‘new’ system...

[Goove]

ONLY if the "translation" was poorly done. Again, I've been 100% digital for what seems close to 20 years now. And there are many other AKers who have a large part, if not all, of their collections digitized as well. Add in all the music streaming services who's libraries are all in digital format - some of it at high resolution. I don't want you to think "digital music" is hit-or-miss. Lol!! What is the source of the music/songs with issues?

Please don’t misunderstand...I don’t mean to imply that digital music is bad. Most of my collection is digital too. Only now am I growing the vintage vinyl collection.

The songs in question are being streamed through Spotify. As I investigate further...I think the culprit may actually be the Bluetooth device that’s relaying the music to the receiver...it’s a little $30 gadget purchased to get the streamed playlists onto the receiver...

Thoughts?

 

[imral3]

Bluetooth, regardless of the cost of the device, while very convenient is not the best in terms of supporting audio quality. That's your weak link.

 

[Goove]

Bluetooth, regardless of the cost of the device, while very convenient is not the best in terms of supporting audio quality. That's your weak link.

I’m inclined to agree....
What do you recommend?

 

[imral3]

Well... Lol!?! I'm currently using a Kindle Fire tablet to stream over WiFi from my music server. I'm kinda struggling myself with obtaining a better option, whether it be a program or new device that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. I want to be able to remotely control, or cast from my phone, without being physically tethered. Hopefully another AKer will happen by with advice for the both of us.

 

[turnitup]

Welcome to AK- I like your system! I use a little (inexpensive and discontinued Apple express) to go from my mobile devices to my analogue receiver with Spotify. Works great for me. Craigslist or the auction site usually have them available. Very pleased with the results with mine. Much better high-quality methods available, but for the price and convenience, it’s hard to beat.

 

[Kevin D]

I use 3.5mm to rca jacks to my ipod.

 

[Cap1]

$35 Chrome Cast would be better than Bluetooth.

 

[Old Guy8]

I use discontinued wifi "Chromecast Audio" device. I use a Mini Toslink cable out to a dac, bypassing the CCAs internal chip dac. Cast from my Android phone or tablet. Not sure it can work with Apple devices. Note not same as the Chromecast device, if your not familiar with them.
I listen by way of Tune in app

 

[Rome]

Nice pieces!

Rome

 

[Nightwisher]

Sweet! Need more "Total system" pictures.

 

[Lossless]

Your streaming music will only be as good as it’s source. I highly recommend trying the 30 day free trial of Tidal or Qobuz. They both offer 16bit/44.1 or 1411kbps lossless CD quality streaming and even higher 24bit/192kHz or 9216kbps Hi-Res streaming.

The majority of the other streaming services only offer 128kbps to 320kbps MP3 lossy streaming. With those other low quality streaming services you are only getting around 10% of the full audio experience. The lossy music from the majority of streaming providers is highly compressed and audibly compromised to save the provider money on internet bandwidth cost, and also to stream music through a cellular connections without eating up the consumer’s cellular data.

You may want to invest in a DAC (Digital to Analog Converter). They can vary anywhere from $5 to $5000. This DAC will have to be connected to a computer USB. The DAC in most computers and some inexpensive streaming devices are usually very low quality; Possibly The reason why you couldn’t hear the vocals.

This is a basic example

This DAC is under $50 and IMO has very good sound quality.

This popular Hi-Res DAC can be connected to a smartphone (with optional iOS or Android OTG adapter) or to a PC.

I would also recommend going wired vs wireless if feasible. Your music streaming will have a lot less RF interference and better sound quality.

After experiencing Hi-Res audio streaming, there is no going back to providers like Apple Music, Pandora, Spotify, or any other provider that does not at least have lossless CD quality music.