You don't want books covering your speakers or newspapers heating up on your DAC. It doesn't mean you have to go out and buy a specifically treated desk or else your speakers will sound like you got them out of a bin, but it shouldn't be buckling under the weight of your computer or tipping on wonky legs as you type.Īnd keep it as clear as possible. Regular readers are likely sick to their back teeth of us going on about this kind of thing, but stable and rigid support for your electronics is something you ignore at your peril. Though we are all quite taken by the convenience of streaming – especially now it doesn't necessarily mean deficient audio quality – you will still achieve better sound from hi-res files downloaded and stored on your computer or separate hard drive.Ĭertain streaming services such as Qobuz also offer hi-res downloads, with a healthy discount in their download store for those who take up their premium annual plan, which – though we have our issues with it as a streaming platform – could be a cost-effective way of experiencing both worlds.Īnd until 15 May, Qobuz is offering What Hi-Fi? readers 29 free hi-res and CD-quality album downloads.

Whats my sound card