Is the Mytek Brooklyn Bridge or Lumin D2 good buys in 2021?


...only because we’re so close to 2021.

I just bought both devices, have them running direct to Elac Navis ARF-51’s (which are amazing btw).  Both devices sound good, are close in price, and have similar functionality (yes the BB has more ins).  
Display on the Lumin is straight out of 2012, Mytek‘s is not much better.  Mconnect is absolute trash, while the Lumin app is decent.  Really like the physical volume knob of the Mytek, overall aesthetics, and WiFi connectivity.

Both are dated devices.  Are either of these devices good buys in 2021?  If so, which one? What about service life?

helloitsben

Showing 6 responses by helloitsben

OP here - I don’t have a use case for Roon. All the albums I want to listen to are on Tidal, which is my exclusive source.  The Elac’s are active but 100% analog when connected via xlr/rca. Not interested in a pre-amp or separate dac. No sub. Just want a single box for good sounding music.

Right now I’m leaning towards the Lumin D2. The app is much, MUCH better than mConnect.  Also, the Mytek sounds a bit harsh and thin to my ears. That configurable “M” diode those is so cool looking.

Might keep both.
Ok fellow audio friends, I have made a very non-scientific determination (because who cares about measurements that are beyond humans perception?): The Lumin D2 is light years better than the Mytek Brooklyn Bridge. This is after about 3 hours with each unit. 
The D2 makes the music I’m listening to sound like actual music. I can hear the bass, the hi-hats don’t singe the ear drums, and the mids are just pronounced enough to cut through the mix. 
Describing the Mytek is tough. I will defer to my initial impression, Harsh and Thin. If that’s what you’re into then it’s the right streamer for you. I wanted to like this unit a lot more, especially because it looks amazing and was expensive. Combined with the absolutely awful mConnect app, crap manual and website, and constant need to get up and switch between MqA on/off, I would say this is ok at $1200.  
@jackd good points, that helps with the confidence.  I just don’t want to get stuck with a hunk of metal next year that’s laggy or no longer supported.  
@erik_squires the Empire is baller. I would never personally spend that much money on something like a streamer/dac/pre, diminishing returns.  In my opinion, that money is better spend on speakers and amps.  My perspective as a musician who owns all the best guitars, tube amps, drums kits, and studio recording equipment. You can chase and chase but 2.0 can only sound so good..
Sorry but it has to be said:  Do you people even read the initial post? You guys are going on an on about something completely unrelated to my OP.