2. digital
  3. 177849-10803

Point of diminishing returns for a Network Streamers?

You have super cheap Pi streamers (build yourself), $399 IfI Zen, $500 Bluesound Node (no DSD), $700+ Pro-Ject Stream box, then $1k -$2k for Lumins, and others.

I'm running an old iMac as my Roon Core and running a super long, active USB cable to my Dac. I probably do not have to pay much for any improvement since my setup is not ideal. 

I'm really fascinated by the Pro-Ject stream box...however...would it be a major improvement over the IFI Zen? I need DSD so the NODE is out of the question .

I could save and go with the new Lumin U2 mini, however....would it be a huge jump over the Pro-Ject?

aberyclark

Showing 6 responses by aberyclark

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

The Gold Note DS 10 looks interesting

 

 

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

@larry5729 I had the Node 2 for a year it was great although the internal Dac was fair compared to my Pro-Ject Pre Box s2 digital dac. As a streamer, I would probably still be using it, however, it does not pass thru DSD file without conversion. I have my entire SACD collection ripped to my server. 

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

I have a network connection at my system. So the streamer would not be connected to the computer. The mac would, for now, be the Roon Core only and be discoverable on my netwrok. 

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

I’ve read to where a nice higher end streamer will even make one’s mid tier Dac sound much more improved. The Lumin may be the way to go

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

@larry5729 Larry........did you read my response to your earlier "I can't understand" comment? Just look above please and you will find it

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

@rwwear Yes, however, with all the "bells and whistles" are you actually getting a better Dac and Streamer with the Lumin T2 for a similar price since the Lumin does not have movie screens, graphics, etc?

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