Audiophile Setup with an Iphone 7

Hi Wiilemj.

I understand that toslink offers noise isolation and, if bit-perfect, it should be comparable with other streamers.

Check out this article on Chromecast as a streamer.

https://darko.audio/2016/07/not-as-the-artist-intended-google-chromecast-audio-w-tidal/

DAR is an experinced audio journalist and reviewer and I believe one of the best sources for independent information on digital audio.

For two years I used a Chromecast Audio (digital out via toslink) and was very happy to use it for Spotify Connect but the Aries is my go to source for better SQ.

FyI The Aries recently had a software upgrade and has Spotify Connect and so my Chromecast is no longer in use. 

Thanks for the link. I read the Darko piece, but note (not for the first time) that he presents no hard evidence for what on theoretical grounds is a pretty implausible argument. I honestly do not think he is someone to take very seriously. Anyway, that is my take. See here for what I think is a far more solid review: http://archimago.blogspot.nl/2016/02/measurements-google-chromecast-audio_27.html

I am very pleased with my Pro-Ject Dock Box S Digital. Manufacturer's website:  http://box-designs.com/main.php?prod=dockboxsdigital. It is a discontinued product, but as of January 2018 Amazon still had a few at $199.00 US. The internal DAC is very good and the sound quality is noticeably superior to the iPhone 7's internal DAC or a bluetooth connection. The included remote is somewhat useful. Nice feature is that the phone charges while docked.

I bought mine a few years ago to replace an Arcam rDock-uni (which sounded even better), Unfortunately, I fried the Arcam by connecting it to the wrong DC adapter (DOH!) and repairing it was going to cost almost $300.

I use mine connected to an Exposure 2010S integrated AMP, B&W 705 "bookshelf" speakers, and a B&W ASW 700 subwoofer. 

How about a Marantz HD-AMP1 Integrated Amp/DAC.

Use the USB for a direct connection to you iPhone, or add an Airport Express with a Toslink cable to go wireless into your Amp/DAC.

Includes headphone amp as well as 35w/ch for some small speakers.

https://www.musicdirect.com/integrated-amp/marantz-hd-amp1-integrated-amp-dac

As an aside, I don't think the iPhone 7 has an internal DAC - no headphone jack at all.  It uses a tiny external headphone dongle which I believe includes a DAC?

Dear Gentlemen & Ladies,

Thank you all, once again, for such an interesting and informative discussion. It is being very useful...much appreciated all your contributions !

Best regards