Naim Nova which options for best HQ streaming

Posted by: BeppeP on 15 April 2018

Dears, wondering what are the best options for streaming hq file from Nova. Currently I plug my hard disk through normal USB cable in the back port of Naim Nova. I would like to buy a NAS and I am wondering if UPNP or DLNA streaming will downgrade resultion in my file, mostly Flac or DSD. As the NAS will be located closer to NOVA in order to preserve quality do you think is better to plug it as hard drive through USB? Do I need an high quality USB cable? My neightbour plug Mac mini to an amplifier DAC and he uses a quite expensive USB cable to do that.. He uses Audirvana as streaming software, wondering if NAS has something similar who can preserve sound quality.

another question, as at the moment I am on Spotify premium, if I subscribe Tidal HIfi does it work straight in Nova or only from laptop to Nova via USB connection?

many thanks

 

 

 

 

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by ChrisSU

A NAS will need to be connected to your network, where the Nova will find it. You can’t connect it via USB. If the USB drive you are using is big enough to store your music, there is no need for a NAS. 

If you do need a NAS, there is no need to put it close to the Nova. It just has to be on your network. Some NAS are a little noisy from the cooling fan and spinning hard drive, so better to put it where this can not be heard. 

Tidal does not need a computer. You can control it in the Naim app, and the signal goes straight from your router to the Nova. 

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by BeppeP

Ok, if I want to control my music with a streaming software what you reccomand? Roon? Does the hard drive USB cable make a difference? UPNP or direct USB there is a difference in audio quality or downsampling?

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by BeppeP

I meant USB cable tranfer digital signal 0-1-0 how we can justify different prices on cable? Do they transfer more data?

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by Dave***t
BeppeP posted:

Ok, if I want to control my music with a streaming software what you reccomand? Roon?

Surely the best way to control anything, including streaming, on a Nova is to use the Naim app?

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by Alley Cat
Dave***t posted:
BeppeP posted:

Ok, if I want to control my music with a streaming software what you reccomand? Roon?

Surely the best way to control anything, including streaming, on a Nova is to use the Naim app?

Assuming you like Roon, I'd say it's probably easier to use via desktop or mobile/tablet apps to control what's playing compared to the Naim app.  I'd suggest BeppeP gives Roon a demo.

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by Sloop John B
BeppeP posted:

I meant USB cable tranfer digital signal 0-1-0 how we can justify different prices on cable? Do they transfer more data?

 

There be dragons!

.sjb

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by BeppeP

Haven't got the answer if upnp or dlna affect sound quality compared to USB plug  

Posted on: 15 April 2018 by ChrisSU
BeppeP posted:

Haven't got the answer if upnp or dlna affect sound quality compared to USB plug  

I do not believe that you will find any significant difference in sound quality, as long as you use a properly set up network. There has been a lot of discussion on here about possible differences in sound caused by such things as grounding of shielded Ethernet cables, for example. If I was in your position, I would not let it stop me from using a NAS.