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Ifi Zen Stream vs Lumin U1 mini, worth the jump?

I’m trying to get a good streaming setup going again. I have had lumins in the past (D2 and T2) that I really enjoyed but ended up having to sell the T2 awhile back. Anyways I’m on the hunt again and wondering if it’s worth it sound quality wise and usability wis to jump up from something like the Zen stream to a Lumin U1 mini used or on sale now that U2 was released. I haven’t decided on a dac yet but most likely something r2r like a Pontus II or similar. 
i do like the leedh volume control on the lumins as I have a croft Phono Integrated powering my Harbeths which has no remote, but that’s not a deal breaker. Just wondering if anyone has insight on any sound quality differences ?

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Showing 1 response by christianb5s4

christianb5s4
231 posts
 

I did a lot of research on this before taking the jump to a full Lumin U1 and just added an X1 power supply. Night and day compared to my Node 130 with upgraded power supply feeding a Denafrips terminator plus. Granted I don't have direct experience with the Zen but imagine that and the Node aren't far off.

 

The Lumin app takes some getting used to but overall it's an amazing setup, and for me an 'end game' on the streamer side. I also listened to a Lumin U1 mini and T2. If you're patient, look for the full U1 used. That's what I did.

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