If you have completed the Audirvana Windows install and basic configuration, congratulations. But for the true purist, Windows is a noisy operating system. Here is how to take it further.
Once installed, launch Audirvana. You might immediately notice a warning about "Windows Audio." Do not panic. audirvana windows install
By default, Windows wants to control the volume. Audirvana does not. You need to go into Windows Sound Settings → Sound Control Panel → Select your DAC → Properties → Advanced. If you have completed the Audirvana Windows install
This allows Audirvana to hijack the DAC properly. This allows Audirvana to hijack the DAC properly
If you have invested in a decent DAC and a pair of good headphones or speakers, Audirvāna is a must-try. The improvement in sound quality over standard players like iTunes or Groove Music is immediate and noticeable.
However, the value proposition depends on how much you value Convenience vs. Ownership. If you hate subscriptions, look at JRiver or Foobar2000 (though they are harder to set up). If you want the best sound with the easiest setup for Tidal/Qobuz, Audirvāna is the winner.
Install it today for the 30-day free trial. Listen to a track you know intimately. If you don't hear a difference, uninstall it. But you likely will.