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Right, about that PRO iDSD thingy people talk about lately? IT! IS! HEEEEREEEEE! Well, almost. OK, as per usual, we can't give too much specifics, teasers will have to do the trick today... But let's take it one day at a time and dang, things are going to get heavy. Stay with us just a little longer! Juicy details are to be served very soon. In the meantime, ENJOY! UPDATE!!! We have some major news to share. First of all, the Pro iDSD premiere date: The 15th of February 2018 We don't expect any difficulties along the road towards this day. Yet if some shifts will occur, we'll update this very post to keep you good CA people properly informed. And secondly, the Pro iDSD retail price: $2,499 (ex-tax) €2,999 (inc vat) £2,499 (inc vat) Additionally, this thread will serve as the official Pro iDSD repository, which means that every publication (or its location link) related to this device will be listed in this thread for as easy access as possible. 1. Our take on digital filters How iFi audio sees digital filtering in general. 2. Digital filters/options in our Pro iDSD Explanation of how and what is upsampled in the Pro iDSD. Tech talk Part 1: Part 2: Part 3: Part 4: Part 5: Major GE5670 related announcement Pro iDSD front panel Part 1: Part 2: Pro iDSD - The GTO filter Part 1/4 (and the 5.3C FW release announcement): Pro iDSD - The MQA firmware FW 2.01:

View Classified SOtM sMS-200ultra & sPS-500 + 7N UPOCC Silver cable I've decided to sell my music server as I've actually 'downgraded' to a pi2aes which has AES outputs that I'm enjoying with my Yggy. Included is an sMS-200ultra that has the optional feature of running on 12v. Also included is the sPS-500 power supply, as well as an upgraded 30cm 7N UPOCC Silver DC cable. Additionally, I'm including my Sandisk Extreme Plus 64gb microSD card. Just this morning I freshly formatted it with the newest version of Eunhasu (the operating system), and verified that there were no more updates available within the Eunhasu update section. This means it's as close to turn-key, plug-and-play as can be for the next user. About the condition -- I'm an extremely careful owner. These have always been run in a cool room, and both units were only powered on when I was actually listening to music. They were always plugged into a high performance power conditioner, which was always unplugged during storms or threatening weather. Additionally, when not in use, these were covered with a cotton cloth to keep dust out, and were also never allowed to be exposed to direct sunlight for any part of the day. So yes, I am OCD with my gear, and I thus do believe these are deserving of the 10/10 condition I rated them. I used them for a few years, but only occasionally within that period were they actually 'used', in that they were turned on. I'm not home half the time, and even when I am, I'm not always listening to music on my "big" system. I purchased them directly from a reputable dealer within the US. Shipping is free anywhere in Canada or US if purchased at my asking price. All original boxes and padding are included, and is what will be used for shipping. The padding is very good, surrounded by custom cut foam, so they should easily survive the rigors of transport. The two custom SOtM boxes will be packed together in a larger box with additional padding (bubble wrap, foam, etc.). I also have all the original literature that came with both units, and will also include a stock IEC power cable. Local pickup also available within both the Syracuse and Montreal area. Expect each unit to be in the same shape as when purchased new. Let me know if any further questions arise. Seller tea_hous Date 05/19/22 Price 1,300.00 USD Category Music Servers / Streamers  

View Classified Sonore ultraRendu network streamer Used, excellent condition. This is the pre-2021, O.G. version (not the newer 1.2 variant). From Sonore - ultraRendu: The Sonore ultraRendu project is an extension of the microRendu project that came before it. The design is inspired by audiophile gear and meant to bring grace and simplicity to a microcomputer. The original microRendu was very small and intended to be hidden out of sight behind your other gear. The ultraRendu can be powered by your favorite power supply. The ultraRendu remains as an Ethernet input and USB-Audio output, but all the connectors are located on the rear of the unit for easy cable routing. The ultraRendu utilizes a new proprietary printed circuit board with only the essential components and many updates to match its ultra designation. The best way to connect the ultraRendu to a USB device is via your favorite USB cable. The ultraRendu is easy to configure, accepts streams from various sources, and includes our latest version of our operating system Sonicorbiter. From positive-feedback: "Sonore's next-generation unit is the UltraRendu; it takes the streaming experience to a new level of transparency and intimacy, while adding enhanced features and greatly improved casework. More great news is that there's obviously been some cooperation going on between the folks at Sonore and UpTone Audio (whose Regen USB interface created quite a stir among computer audiophiles a couple of years ago)." The new price for these is now $999 due to inflation, supply chain, etc. Includes Software 2.8 ($29 value) on a pre-installed microSD card. No power supply is included. Please provide your own. I found that a Farad Super3 6v Supply was a revelatory upgrade to the ultraRendu. Why sell it? I built a DIY Extreme music server about 6 months ago, so I don't require the ultraRendu. Price includes shipping to CONUS only and PayPal fees. Seller Jeremy Anderson Date 04/29/22 Price 549.00 USD Category Music Servers / Streamers  

View Classified Network Acoustics USB III For sale, Network Acoustics USB III cables in pristine condition. They were purchased new in March 2021& June 2021 respectively. Both cables has Type A to Type B connectors. A recent change in my system prompted the sale of these amazing cable. The NA USB III takes a bespoke approach, each of the Data, Ground and Power lines dielectrics are physically separated and isolated from each other, hence the acronym III. I have two cables available in 1.0M and 2.0M lengths. 1.0M - $659.00 - SOLD 2.0M - $995.00 If you think USB and Ethernet cables won’t make a difference, think again. The ENO USB Cable III delivers exceptional levels of detail and realism, in a natural, effortless presentation, completely devoid from digital artefacts and harshness. This USB cable capable of bringing the best out of any high quality Streaming device and DAC it connects and will transform the musical experience. Lots of glowing praises for USB and Network Acoustics ENO Filter / LAN cable, https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/streaming-sound-quality-want-the-very-best-sound-quality-network-aco PayPal, add 3% fee. I will pay for shipping within 48 states. No lowball offers please. Description: With ENO USB Cable III we have taken the USB protocol originally designed for computing and extensively optimised every element of its design and construction exclusively for the reproduction of audio. We rigorously researched and tested the best materials and construction techniques for the conductors and developed bespoke dielectrics and shielding structures for each of the Data, Ground and Power lines, which we then physically separated and isolated from each other. The resulting ENO USB Cable III represents the very best sounding USB audio cable currently available. Key Features ■ Unique 3-Core segregated cable architecture. ■ Each core has a specifically designed dielectric and shielding structure. ■ High purity UPOCC conductors ■ Gold plated pure copper connectors. ■ 2 Years warranty. Seller zebo67 Date 07/06/21 Price 995.00 USD Category Cables  

View Classified Cambridge Audio 851N (New) For sale is a new and unopened media streamer from Cambridge Audio, the 851N Azur, in black. This is a unit sent to me as a replacement under warranty for another 851N that developed problems with its right DAC channel. However, I no longer need the 851N because I have a Roon NUC acting as a server to an RME ADI-2 FS DAC I recently purchased. In my opinion, this is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to purchase an all-in-one streamer/DAC/preamp at a very good price. Shipping will be the responsibility of the buyer. Payment with PayPal only. (Photos are—obviously—not of the unit for sale but of the 851N product provided by the manufacturer.) Specs are available from Cambridge Audio here :https://www.cambridgeaudio.com/usa/en/products/hi-fi/851/851n Seller NWDave Date 05/27/21 Price 999.00 USD Category Music Servers / Streamers  

I have an innuos SE which I've had since new (about two and a half years) and I was just wondering what forum members would recommend as the minimum requirement for Ethernet use and treatment for streaming. I've predominantly used it as a server playing music directly from the SSD up until now. My current set up is literally a plain common or garden mains powered Technicolour TG589 V2 Ethernet switch plugged into a mains powered TP Link Powerline then in a separate room I have another mains powered TP Link Powerline and then an Ethernet cable that goes from that straight into my Innuos Zenith SE. So about as wrong and as basic as you could get I suppose. Any and all recommendations, suggestions and help are welcome.

View Classified Sonore microRendu Network Streamer & Custom Linear Power Supply Sonore microRendu audiophile network player/streamer including latest 2.8 version firmware. Custom linear power supply. Outstanding endpoint for Roon streaming, Spotify Connect, NAA mode for HQ Player, DLNA/MPD mode for use with a huge variety of iOS and Android remote apps(e.g. Lumin, Linn Kazoo, Audionet). Includes original box, packing materials, hard USB connector. Linear power supply includes 4ft. DC output cable providing 7V to microRendu power input and allowing convenient placement of the LPS on a separate shelf from the mR. Only selling because I upgraded to OpticalRendu. Darko Review https://darko.audio/2017/01/classy-sonores-microrendu-takes-digital-audio-higher/ The Absolute Sound Review https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/sonore-microrendu-streaming-music-player-and-signature-series-linear-power-supply LPS built specifically for the microRendu by Vince DiNenna - Ecco Audio, a respected audio builder & designer who only builds for friends, details as follows: - Linear Technologies application notes based design - Low ESR aluminum caps. - Static shielded - Antek toroidal transformer 9v, 8 amps capable. - Jantzen Audio 2.0mH 15 AWG Air Core Inductor Crossover Coil for filter section. (That's big.) - Linear Technology 1084ct low dropout regulator . 3 amps capable. Adjustable. - Hifi2000 Italian made aluminum with steel cover chasis with semi heat sink side panels & anti-vibration feet. - DIN plug, removable DC multi-stranded copper 4ft. cable. - Black front panel, blue led on front. - Toggle power switch on back - IEC connector. Removable. - Ceramic fuse. - Modular design. It's included here basically for the cost of the parts. Sound quality rivals many ~$500 linear power supplies. Includes: Sonore microRendu 1.0, latest 2.8 firmware on microSD card, 2.7 microSD card(for backup), hard USB connector-replaces USB cable if you want to place directly behind your DAC, original packaging, Ecco Audio custom linear power supply, 4ft. DC cable, generic AC cable Paypal fees & free shipping to CONUS. Local pickup in Austin, TX, USA. Other countries, via Fedex at buyer's expense. Seller sbank Date 01/16/21 Price 399.00 USD Category Music Servers / Streamers

Before this turns into a real phobia I need some reassurance that USB is totally safe and not harmful in any way (-: Let me explain. I am thinking about buying the Innous Zenith Mk3. It only has USB out. So what's the problem? It started with me looking into USB cables and many of them are crazy expensive, then I read about how much better it will sound with the innuos phoenixusb reclocker. So I started to think that USB is an inferior connection, that needs a lot of equipment to sound right. And because the USB connection is asynchronous then the fancy phoenixusb reclocker will “only” deliver a clean USB signal to the DAC, but the DAC has to use its own internal clock. Today I use S/PDIF and I never read about a S/PDIF enhancement devices. So is USB safe and maybe a better connection type than S/PDIF?

Who have you all worked with who can help advise putting together the digital components of a mid-priced system (I have the analog side taken care of.) Someone who is knowledgable and ethical. Looking to put together a few zone wireless Roon system (currently using Roon Core on an iMac over Airplay to a few endpoints via Airport Express) Thanks.

Aqua Acoustic Quality LinQ Network Interface review - July 2020 For starters, this review is almost as much about the SOTM Neo (+ capacitor upgrade) streamer + the Sonore LPSU combo as it is about the LinQ, allow me to explain.As we have all experienced some level of quarantining and social distancing our systems and good music becomes even more important, especially if you’re an audiophile. And with that excuse in mind, I was eyeing the next digital input upgrade - either a music server or a streamer/renderer. Not long ago I had purchased a SOTM sMS-200ultra Neo streamer/renderer (long enough name?) and a Sonore Signature Linear Power Supply with the optional Cardas DC3 output cable. The match yielded top notch sonics and bettered my Sonore ultraRendu + Sonore Audiophile Linear Power Supply. The Neo + Sig LPSU added a bit more clarity, more meat on the bones and slightly better dynamics. After reading about SOTM’s Neo available upgrades I decided to upgrade the Neo’s power supply cap, an option SOTM offers but with a lesser quality cap than I used (I used an Audio Note + ConneX silver hookup wire). The sound bloomed further with a slightly quieter background and tighter bass. Adding Stillpoint minis and IsoAcoustics Oreas to the streamer and LPSU was icing on the cake – a truly first rate and versatile streaming setup at a moderate price, especially if found on the used market. That was April and, seemingly like COVID-19, the upgrade itch never goes away.I heard about the LinQ last year, however no reviews were available. This spring I contacted one early purchaser who had no meaningful baseline for comparison, a stock Mac mini or laptop vs. adding the LinQ – surprise, it’s better than without. Finally, a review emerged comparing the LinQ directly to CH Precision gear and the results were quite positive. As a believer in I2S and its engineering – based and purported benefits, plus being an owner of a Formula xHD Rev. 2 DAC, it seemed a perfect fit.Finally, the review, please?I inquired with Mike of Suncoast Audio out of sunny Florida for a demo unit. He replied, “Can’t do a home demo since I can’t keep them in stock!” My thoughts were – if I really don’t like it, I can sell it at a reasonable loss especially if they’re currently selling so well. And so I told Mike to count me in for the June batch. Currently Roon or UPnP DLNA modules are available. I opted for the Roon module although I understand a HQPlayer – compatible NAA module is in the works. Given the choice I would have opted for the NAA module; it is simply sonically better than Roon in my system.As with the Formula the LinQ arrived double boxed and safely transported. It’s the identical enclosure to all Aqua gear with a thick aluminum front faceplate and an anti – resonant coated cover assembly. Simple. Stylish. Functional. The LinQ setup is incredibly simple – power, network and link to DAC and go! It linked to my PC’s Roon Server and was ready to play. After a few songs where I tried to not form any judgement (like it sounded a bit lean but with uber – fast transients) I let it burn in for about 180 hours.The review (about time)With a direct comparison to the Neo + Sig LPSU combo the LinQ’s sound stage width, height and depth know no boundaries. On certain well – recorded tracks the illusion of instruments not only placed inside and outside the speakers but from directly behind the speakers emerged. I’ve only heard that one other time in a Wilson XLF / Lamm / Continuum Caliburn TT – based system in a well - treated and balanced room. Furthermore, on Michel Camilo’s Triangulo, a fabulously recorded Telarc CD including uber performers Anthony Jackson on bass, Horacio Hernandez on drums and of course the piano prodigy Camilo on ivories instruments are precisely placed horizontally and vertically, more so than with the Neo/Sig LPSU combo. Less amorphous blobs and more coherent shapes emerged. Also, the LinQ’s wider, more wrap – around sound stage puts you more convincingly in the audience. In terms of sounding more analog as folks like to say, the timber is closer to real instruments with the LinQ. Camilo’s piano attack and decay are astonishingly real as are the wood block initial “Ticks’ and following “Tttt Tttttt” decays. An affect the LinQ clearly pulled ahead vs. the less costly setup. Lastly this SACD reveals incredibly fast transients both leading and trailing. Any bassists and drummers not in sync and drummers not in the pocket are outed, for better or worse.In another exemplary recording and performance – Hugh Masekela’s Hope on DSD, several descriptors come to mind – realism and micro / macro dynamics. While at most audio shows or folks wanting to show off their system, they focus on the last track, Stimela, I highly encourage folks to explore the entire SACD. A stand – out track is Nomali, an excellent song that goes from laid back to punchy and hyper – dynamic with the LinQ. Sound stage depth, height and width are formidably expressed, more than with most music. It’s another “you are there” SACD and this one was indeed recorded live. Coupled with dual Wells Innamorata amps, the Vivid Giya G2S2s simply sing and never shout irrespective of level and the LinQ shows the way more than I would have expected. It guides with confidence, prowess and never deviates from ultimate sonics.Remember when I said this review is almost as much about the SOTM Neo (+ cap upgrade) streamer + the Sonore LPSU combo as it is about the LinQ? Well it’s because for the clams the Neo w/cap upgrade + Sonore LPSU is no slouch. In fact, depending on the resolution capabilities of your system and your room treatment setup (or lack thereof) the delta may not be that much or worth the clams. After burn – in and listening to the LinQ for a few days I did an A - B rinse, repeat with both streamers simultaneously connected and with a simple flick of a source switch on the DAC and Pause - Play click a comparison with a five second delay was possible. Switching back and forth a few things stand out, the old removing a veil analogy, dynamics, and ultimate realism. We’re not talking tons of difference here and had I not heard the LinQ I’d be happy with the Neo/Sonore LPSU combo. But once you hear the difference (again if your system can realize the benefits) you simply cannot go back. I recall thinking, if I did this comparison on my office system with my NuForce DAC and amp and ELAC Adante monitors with minimal room treatment I’d probably keep the less expensive setup and spend the moola saved on a better amp. But I could be wrong.ConclusionThe net of it is – this is one very transparent, highly dynamic, huge soundstage yielding, uber – dimensional and incredibly realistic – sounding streamer / renderer. Streamers like the ultraRendu and Neo with tweaks and great LPSUs can come close, especially so with many systems. But if you have a revealing system that can take advantage of uber – dynamics, live – like realism, ultra - clarity (and be careful what you wish for folks) the LinQ is a no brainer. And with the hopefully to be released NAA module + a Synergistic Research Orange fuse + upgraded Stillpoints + better cables, even better sonics are on the horizon. A vaccine for audiophiles’ itch, just maybe!

I run Roon Core on a Mac mini (2012 model, i7 quad, 16GB RAM, 120GB SSD, 3TB FW800 HD). Playing to a dCS Rossini over the network. Rossini is connected directly to the mini's ethernet port, the switch is connected to the mini via an Thunderbolt/Ethernet adapter, and the two ethernet ports are bridged together (so I can see the Rossini from anywhere in the network). Questions: 1- Are there sound quality difference from switching to, say, a Roon Nucleus+ or other servers - assuming I always play over the network? 2- Are there any network configurations and/or hardware that are better? 3- Any other advice? Thx.

This is a near-new three-month-old, mint Aurender N100H caching music server with a 2TB internal drive. It will also use networked NAS servers. It's built like a tank, beautiful fit and finish, and comes with renown, best of breed music app. It is under warranty has all original packaging, including double shipping box, cloth cover and paperwork. and I will throw in shipping to the continental US and a Supra USB cable, given 5 stars and a best-by by What Hi-Fi? Aurender is widely considered to make the best audiophile music servers in the world and the N100H is no exception. The N100H is USB only and plays all files, including DSD and PCM up to 24 bit 384khz. I'm not a great photographer. More pictures are available including packaging and incidentals. From the Aurender site: N100H The Aurender N100H digital music player supports DSD (DSF, DFF), WAV, FLAC, ALAC, APE, AIFF, M4A and other major formats at native-bit and sampling rates. Equipped with a high-performance USB digital audio output, Ethernet port, 120GB solid-state drive for cached playback, the N100H is also the ideal solution for playing High-resolution digital music collections from NAS. • 120GB SSD for caching playback • 2TB internal storage • Cached playback of internal and NAS contents • Clean USB audio class 2.0 output • Full linear power supply • Machined aluminum case • 3.0 inch AMOLED display • Switchable for a variety of modes, including names of artists and music titles • Gigabit Ethernet LAN Port for network connectivity • Award-winning Aurender App with convenient features • Remote internet technical support

The exceptional Sonore Micro Rendu in "as new" condition with original box and USB A-to-B link. NO POWER SUPPLY. The micro rendu requires an external power supply- many different choices and price ranges available from others. Roon ready. See http://www.sonore.us/microRendu.html List $640.00. Sell for $540 via PayPal and will include shipping in US.

Dear gurus, I own ArcamAlpha 5 amplifier. To enter into digital era I subscribed to Tidal. I also added ArcamMiniBlink. Now I want to improve expirence a little. I would like to receive advices about following combinations: ArcamMiniBlink + ArcamAlpha5 amplifier (existing one) or Bluesound Node2 + ArcamAlpha5 amplifier or simply Bluesound Powernode2 and pair of speakers. Which one is expected to work the best? Is amplifier part in Powernode expected to be better than old ArcamAlpha5? Thank you blaz_si

I just finished my DIY audiostreamer. The base is an AsRock motherboard with onboard processor (Q1900-ITX), wide PicoPSU, 3 linear power supplies (PSU) for the mobo, the ssd and the PPA USB V2 Card (Paul Pang). I made linear PSU’s based on the sigma 11 DY project by AMB laboratories (USA). Currently, I have installed Daphile. More info and photo's on: https://audiostreamerdiyproject.wordpress.com/

The HOST is the first digital music server of CLONES audio. Equipped with a high performance USB digital audio output, Ethernet port, solid-state drive for music storage, full linear power supply with the super low noise regulator modules. Providing the solid foundation to the high performance playback. The great solution for playing and storing high resolution digital music collections. Custom Linux OS with the ROON Server for the best performance. Also providing the DAPHILE as the difference choice for the user. The HOST also is the platform for audiophiles to make his own PC based Computer Audio System. • SHAAR USB gateway for the clean and high performance USB audio class 3.0 output. • Full linear power supply. • Double POWER STATION regulator supply the SSD/SHAAR and the Main processor board separately • 256GB/ 500GB/ 1TB/ 2TB internal storage option • Machined aluminum case, same structure as the ASHER DAC • Gigabit Ethernet LAN Port for network connectivity Specification • 322mm(W) X 260mm(D) X 90mm(H) • Weight: 7kg • Mucic Storage: 256GB/ 500GB/ 1TB/ 2TB • Digital Output: 2 - USB • Other I/O: Gigabit Ethernet, USB Port X 4 • 2 YEARS WARRANTY Price: Starting from HKD11,799(EUR1,377)* *Solid-state hard drive and ROON licence are excluded CLONES audio SaveSave

I'm selling my Dual Femto Clock Aries because I don't use it anymore. Complete package includes the box and everything in it... Perfect condition, latest firmware and so on. 110/220v switchable (just let me know what would you use and I'll switch the voltage before shipping). Used for about 6 months. LPSU included. Shipping worldwide available. $1100

I'm looking for advice on a streamer. I'm currently using a modified OPPO-105 with linear power supply (and other improvements over the years) to feed my new auralic Vega DAC. I’ve been controlling it with the remote, and with the android app on a tablet. The Vega provides excellent sound, but I have lost the ability to stream DSD natively. Vega requires DSD via DOP on USB. The OPPO sounds excellent by itself with music on USB thumb drive on the front panel, or streaming wirelessly from my SMB share on my Asus router. I own JRiver, but have not been able to get it to work as well. I see four ways forward and ask your advice. 1) use a XLR switchbox so that I can listen to DSD directly from the OPPO outputs. This is the lowest cost option, but does not take full advantage of my new DAC. 2) purchase a used Aries streamer. However, online, some describe this is a middle level solution, and recommend various add-ons, improvements, and changes to the streaming infrastructure. Also haven’t had great luck with DLNA servers myself. For example, the OPPO sounds excellent from my samba server, or the USB front part, but not so good using J River or using DLNA. I also would need to purchase an iPad for this option. 3) find a used Aurender N100H. This would be my preferred solution except the price is very high. I particularly like the idea of being free from my network which has to be wireless at this point, and is not always 100% reliable. 4) I have an extra quiet PC (Streacom heatsink case , 3770 CPU, SSD etc.) that I could convert into either a streamer or a server. This was my original plan year ago, but now I’m concerned that it will still be electrically noisy. I could add a 100 W linear power supply, and a SOTM USB output card this could be a contender, but I still think that an Aries streamer would be easier to use. perhaps there are other options… Thanks, Eric

Hello everyone. I am in research for a streamer or network audio player. Expectations: - it can read mp3, flac and DSD from NAS (network attached storage, in my case Synology DS212j) and USB memory stick - it should transport digital signal (via SPDIF or USB) to external DAC - reliable while operating - price of the player should be within 1500€ (linear power supply included) - I don't want solutions that need external display (e.g. computer monitor). It should be HiFi device that can be turned on via button Advantage: - dedicated mobile application, and not just web control interface - AirPlay - Internet radio - streaming services Current candidates: - Sonore microRendu - no dedicated application. 640 $ + linear power supply. - Sonore ultraRendu - no dedicated application. They say at several forums that this model is better than its predecessor. 875 $ + linear power supply - SOtM sMS-200 - no dedicated application, didn't hear it. 450 $ + linear power supply - SOtM sMS-200ultra - no dedicated application. They say at several forums that this model is better than its predecessor. 1200 $ + linear power supply - Auralic Aries Mini - dedicated application. AirPlay + internet radio. 550€ + linear power supply - Auralic Aries LE - dedicated application. AirPlay + internet radio. I heard there are several problems with the stability caused by network problems. 1000€ + linear power supply - Auralic Aries - dedicated application. AirPlay + internet radio. I heard several problems with the stability caused by network problems. I do not know the price. - Bluesound Node 2 - dedicated application, Airplay, internet radio. No DSD support. 600€. - Electrocompaniet Rena S1 - dedicated application, Airplay, internet radio. 600€. - Onkyo NS-6170 - dedicated application, Airplay, internet radio. 350€. I heard only Sonore microRendu which had great sound for me. There are not candidates: - Raspberry Pi - there is no customized version of the HiFi I just buy, without having to do anything, put together, buy separately etc. that is sonically good enough for my system. Correct me if I'm wrong. - Aurender - great equipment but out of the price category. - dCS Network Bridge - great equipment, but out of the price category. Questions - do you have candidates to add to this list? - did you ever heard one of this candidates or can you compare it? It is own hearing experience that is most relevant to me, not reviews from 3rd sources. - if there is perfect or near-perfect process of comparing different streamers, what would it be? I noticed there are no such information available publicly. Many thanks!

Hello all, My current setup involves a Cambridge Audio CXA60 amp, Azur 851D DAC (Which I picked up for an absolute steal) and a Yamaha WXC50 which I use as a network streamer. I am absolutely happy with the sound quality I get out of this setup, but as you know with all things audio, the question of "Can it get any better?" is always at the back of my mind. The way I look at it, the streamer is the weakest link in the chain, more of a budget component than the other two, so I am wondering if it makes any sense to upgrade this. I have my eyes on either a Linn Majik DS or a Naim ND5 XS (Can't justify the investment yet, but maybe in some months or sooner if a good used deal pops up). But honestly, would the streamer make any difference when all analog conversion duties are being handled by the outboard DAC (851D)? I am not talking about minute differences that one can only measure with lab equipment, but actual, audible difference that makes one sit up and notice? Any thoughts would be highly appreciated.