I had the ultraRendu for a few months before moving up to the opticalRendu. At least in my system, it was a noticeable improvement ... the main benefit is noise floor reduction. With the opticalRendu, I can hear more details emerging from a blacker background. During the same time period, I auditioned Innuos Zen Mini, Lumin D2, and Lumin U1 Mini. I found the opticalRendu to be better than the aforementioned streamers.
Optical vs Ultra Rendu.
Is it worth the $696 more to go with the optical Rendu:
Over the standard (ethernet connected) ultra Rendu:
Has anybody compared these units, is there a notable difference in sound quality between these two? Both still connect to the DAC via USB.
Showing 3 responses by arafiq
@audioman58 -- I have the opticalRendu in my second (home office system). SmallGreenComputers sell a bundle that includes a separate power supply and an FMC bundle -- the cost of the bundle adds an extra $200 I think. My system is setup like this ... Router >> Switch (which is optional) >> ethernet cable >> media converter >> fiber optics cable >> opticalRendu >> USB >> DAC The only additional step compared to other streamers is that you insert a fiber-to-ethernet converter in between the streamer and your ethernet connection. It sounds more complicated than it really is. The other option is to buy a network switch that supports fiber optics output. |
@audioman58 -- you don't need two opticalRendus. You can get the opticalRendu bundle (which gives you everything you need to set it up) for under $1700. I'm not sure why you think you need two opticalRendus. I have only one in my system and it is a really good streamer for the price.
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