Get a Raspberry Pi, install Volumio, attach your DAC of choice (you may need to buy a DigiCard for TOS) and then configure for Spotify, AirPlay, whatever.
Best streamer given my constraints
Looking to shift streaming source off my PC to improve sound. Presently running Mac C50 preamp to Mac 275 amp and B&W Prestige Monitors in my office. Presently running Spotify but ready to up the ante to Tidal/Qobuz, even possibly Roon.
* This site does not have ethernet access so streamer must be WiFi
* No need for hard drive or ripping
So far my research is pointing to Auralic Aries G1 but that's a few years old at this point. Is there a newer/better option?
Thanks very much in advance for any/all input!
* This site does not have ethernet access so streamer must be WiFi
* No need for hard drive or ripping
So far my research is pointing to Auralic Aries G1 but that's a few years old at this point. Is there a newer/better option?
Thanks very much in advance for any/all input!
7 responses Add your response
Keep your computer and add a Sonore Rendu. The opticalRendu’s are the best ones but a bit more complicated. The microRendu (what I use) is a breeze to setup and sounds very good. Much better than direct from your computer to the DAC. These are digital-to-digital converters. A lot of new products out now that do this. The Rendu’s were some of the first to market and still near the top. https://www.smallgreencomputer.com/blogs/news/product-of-the-decade BTW - just noticed that you need wifi. I would use a Power Line unit as posted above or go with an Aurelic product for Wifi. |
Do you have a router somewhere in your home? If yes, I suggest you review using a Power over Ethernet connection (PoE). Power over Ethernet is the technology, in which along with the data, power is also carried on the ethernet cables, which can be used to power up the networked devices, like like you streamer, etc. in there words, Power over Ethernet, or PoE, describes any of several standards or ad hoc systems that pass electric power along with data on twisted pair Ethernet cabling. This allows a single cable to provide both data connection and electric power to devices such as your steamer. https://www.amazon.com/D-Link-DWL-P200-Power-Over-Ethernet-Adapter-Injector/dp/B00DB4DFGS https://www.techradar.com/news/the-best-powerline-adaptors If that sounds complicated, do not worry. The best powerline adapters just happen to be incredibly easy to install. You simply plug one into a power socket by your router or modem, and connect it via an Ethernet cable. Then, place a second adapter where you want to supply the network or internet to, and connect any devices to the second adaptor. It is very easy and it works great. And allows you to look at additional steamers. |
That is a pretty nice system you have there... I would think it deserves something better than a blue sound 2i... Have a look at the Lumin product line streamers and streamer/DAC combos... Something like a U1 mini with an external DAC like a Chord or Benchmark might be pretty sweet... You can use something like the Netgear Universal N600 Dual Band Wi-Fi To Ethernet Adapter if you only have Wi-Fi... These kind of WiFi to Ethernet adapters are pretty common and are inexpensive... |
