Streamer in the ~$3000 range

[theppd]

Hello everyone!

Currently trying to pick the next streamer for my system. Had Auralic Aries LPSU didn't liked it's sound signature (too forward, lifeless and sometimes too harsh).

 

The range I'm trying to get as much info and comparisons as possible is:

1) Antipodes

2) Melco N1A vs 3) Aurender X or N100

4) AudioAanZee Reference Flow

 

Is there anyone who has tested/compared these? Maybe something better according to your experience and comparisons?

[mabe]

...started with PC-Audio 7 years ago. Tweaked and optimized the system (HW & SW) continuously. I've evaluated a few renderer and streamer last year. So far I found that the Aurender (X100) sounded always better and the user interface fits exactly my wish/must have list. In addition the Aurender (HW & SW) has been proven very stable even after some major SW upgrades.

 

It's worth to mention that in combination with the bel canto REFLink the setup enables an even more relaxed and emotional sound.

 

Currently, I'm very happy with my all digital system.

 

Mabe

 

[theppd]

Thanks Maybe!

Which streamers have you compared to X100? The reason I'm asking is because based on most reviews out there, everyone really likes what they chose to buy. For example, there are no downsides in Melco N1A anywhere on the web based on comments of it's owners. Mostly that's because each streamer sounds better than computer and almost no one has compared it with the competition. Don't know why actually since there are lots of comparisons of DACs for example.

[mabe]

in short:

 

Renderer: Auralic Aries (had highest priority amongst others --> due to my 'all dig. system' concept )

 

Streamer: Linn Akurate, T&A MP 2000, Marantz NA 8005

[theppd]

Nice, thanks! I also had high expectations of Aries since I have almost full stack of Auralic products)

[firedog]

renderers:

 

Sonore Signature Rendu (spdif/I2S)

Sonore micorRendu (USB) - about to be in production (see thread in Sonore forum on this site)

[r_w]

Can highly recommend the Aurender N100 (optically isolate the LAN connection and us an LPS for the N100 end of the Fibre converter)

[theppd]

renderers:

 

Sonore Signature Rendu (spdif/I2S)

Sonore micorRendu (USB) - about to be in production (see thread in Sonore forum on this site)

 

Thanks but why should it be chosen over the others?

[theppd]

Can highly recommend the Aurender N100 (optically isolate the LAN connection and us an LPS for the N100 end of the Fibre converter)

 

Yes, I know that each one of those from the list is a great player and should sound perfect. But why should I chose N100 over N1A for example?

[r_w]

I have not done any comparisons, I read about the minimalist approach of the N100 and its LPS, it just made sense to me so I bought it. It was a very good decision.

 

;-)

[alubis]

Mostly that's because each streamer sounds better than computer and almost no one has compared it with the competition. Don't know why actually since there are lots of comparisons of DACs for example.

 

I think you haven't researched it quite enough.

 

Audiostream comparing Melco N1A vs Antipodes DS: Melco N1A High Resolution Digital Music Library | AudioStream

 

HiFi News Feb 16 issue comparing Aurender N10 vs Melco N1A usb output. (No link, you have to pick up the issue)

 

User feedback:

Aurender N100 or Melco N1A

MELCO - Page 2

[Jimmypowder]

Is it the dac or the streamer that most impacts sounds quality ?

[r_w]

I think it's about equal, given how bad some computers/servers can be at poisoning DACs with noise/EMI.

 

Is it the dac or the streamer that most impacts sounds quality ?

[firedog]

Thanks but why should it be chosen over the others?

 

The Signature Rendu is thought by many to be the best sounding device on the market for SPDIF and I2S. Read the product page to see that it was carefully designed for this purpose.

 

The microRendu is like its sibling, being designed from the ground up for superior ethernet>USB audio.

 

Neither unit is an "off the shelf" design.

[tranz]

Go for one that avoids using USB and SPDIF conversions.