2. digital
  3. 195410-92513

Another request for Streamer Transport options

I am starting to research Audio streamers, preferably transport only.

Budget is unclear until I learn more but I hope to keep it under $3000.

I have Apple iPhones, MacBook Pro’s, Windows PC’s, and a Synology DS923+ NAS. I have both wired, up to 5g, and wireless.

I’ve saved all my CDs in both ALAC and FLAC. I don’t currently stream but am open to trying Qobuz. My primary music source is a record player and a streamer is a secondary concern.

I would like to connect to both an Anthem STR preamp and an Anthem AVM 90 AV preamp/processor. The STR has USB, digital and analog, the AVM has HDMI, digital, and analog inputs.

I avoid purchasing from Chinese owned companies if possible while realizing even if a company is US based, my preference, manufacturing could be in China. It seems a number of commonly recommended products are made by Chinese owned companies. I don’t judge others choices; it is just my personal preference.

Thank you.

george_r
mclinnguy's avatar
mclinnguy
798 posts
 

I currently use the STR and am adding the AVM 90 and both have very good DAC’s. 

Are you sure? Have you compared their DAC with any other well regarded DAC? I am not trying to cut down Anthem in any way, I just don’t recall reading anything anywhere, regarding their DAC’s in comparison to any other. 

How about Swiss made? https://www.wattson.audio/madison-streamer

I believe I read these guys consulted on the digital for CH Precision’s digital equipment, so they really know what they are doing. Retail is about $3500US, but I would wager using their DAC in the streamer would render the Anthem’s redundant. 

"In my system, the Madison LE streamer-DAC delivered a level of vibrance and vital clarity I had not previously encountered for under five figures. My highest recommendation." -stereophile

hk_fan
561 posts
 

I was about to mention the Wattson Madison as well.  I plan to audition one soon.  I’ve been very happy with my Lumin U1 Mini which I believe is a Hong Kong product.

Like you, I prefer to avoid Chinese products when possible.

Good luck with your search!

george_r OP
37 posts
 

@mclinnguy Bypassing the STR's DAC defeats the purpose of the STR for me. I lose ARC and especially bass management. I can bypass the STR DAC if I choose but in my multi-purpose room with stand speakers and dual subwoofers, I prefer not to. The STR DAC's have received high praise and I have been happy with it. I'm likely going with a USB connection and no longer attempting to also connect a streamer to the AVM 90. Thank you.

devinplombier
893 posts
 

How about Swiss made? https://www.wattson.audio/madison-streamer

I believe I read these guys consulted on the digital for CH Precision’s digital equipment, so they really know what they are doing.

Wattson and CH are the same company.

 

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