If it were my money, these would be my choices:
Solid performers under 2k ...
-Sonore opticalRendu
-Lumin U1 Mini
Over 2k...
-Innuos Zen MK2
-Innuos Zenith MK3
Over 5k ...
-Lumin U1
-Aurender N10
Let's make a list: Audio Network "Bridges" without DACs...?
I think this is a relevant topic for many, like me, who have a good standalone DAC and seek to keep it that way. Yet, we search for a very high quality Network "bridge" to get files from streaming services to our DAC in the highest quality, most cost-effective way.
So, thought to make a list and have you guys help us all so that others may benefit.
We all know about these:
1. Bluesound Node (has a DAC, yes, but many use it just as a bridge.) $600
2. iFi Zen Stream @ $400
3. Google Chromecat or old Apple TV - $30-$75.00
4. Project Stream Box Ultra
5. Stack Audio Link II - $900 + LPS
What's next?
4 responses Add your response
For any new to the topic, "Network Bridge" is also often referred to as "Network Player" or "Renderer", providing the ability to play any digital file on a network or local drive and send the digital output to a DAC. "Streamer" is often mentioned interchangably, but streaming more specifically is taking the digital file from an internet-based service like Spotify, Qobuz or Tidal. All streamers don't have connectivity to networked drives of your own library. Some have internal drives built-in, optional or can be connected directly via cables. @ianrmack for cost effective/high-quality, one vote here for Sonore products. If budget is very tight and you're DIY-inclined, Raspberry Pi is a sub-hobby into itself. For easy/peasy on modest budget, Blusound Node variants seem to be the "Toyota Corolla" of the category.; proven/functional/decent. Cheers, Spencer |
4. Pro-Ject makes many different, with and without. Metrum Baby A +. Allo USBridge Sig. miniDSP SHD Studio. AES/EBU Magna Mano Ultra i2s Sonore - many. SOtM. Raspberry Pi Lumin. Is there a point? You looking for cheap? Expensive? Plug and Play? The Zen is the newest and with forthcoming software and is probably the current best buy I have no experience with it
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