Can anyone explain the difference to this neophyte? I swear that I cannot find it when I’m scanning a unit’s features or specifications. The latter always costs more so there must be something I’m missing. Thanks in advance.
It's quite simple. A Network Streamer has an analogue output, ergo it contains an internal DAC which is the connection to your audio system ((pre)amp).
A Streaming Transport is only a "bridge" between your network and your audio system. It does not have any analogue outputs and ergo no internal DAC. So an external DAC is necessary to connect it to your (pre)amp to make it sing.
If you already own a great DAC, then a "bridge" or transport will be sufficient. Else you will need a network streamer
Sodejuu, I see the light at last! Essentially….Transport = Player - DAC. Aka a bridge. Got it. Finally. Thanks for a clear explanation.