2. digital
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If you’ve heard an iFi Zen stream, anything better under $1k?

What is the best streamer under $1k? Used included.

I had an iFi Zen stream when they first came out and I put it up against a node 2i and a pi4 and it sounded the best by far using the same external DAC for each. The issue was that it was as buggy as can be but I’ve heard they are a bit better now.

it’s a steal at $400 even if you spend another $100-$200 on a better power supply but has anyone heard better?

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Showing 1 response by mrotino

mrotino
65 posts
 

I have a streamer that is not well known but which I believe is a great value for a little over 1000 new.  The Metrum Acoustics ambre streamer.  It is only a streamer and has to be connected via ethernet.  From what I know it is a pi based streamer with upgraded clocks, linear power supply and better parts in one unit.  It has digital outputs for usb, rca, aes/ebu and an optional I2s board can be purchased.  the I2s board is really only compatible with a few DACs including Metrum which I own.

I've tried both Roon and Volumio as the software and prefer the sound of Volumio so that's what I use for Tidal and Qobuz listening.

 

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