+1 @lalitk
@aberyclark what DAC are you using?
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?
Showing 3 responses by audphile1
@lalitk I was commenting within the context of the original post. Perhaps I should have clarified. And yes there are units out there that excel at streaming while running as roon core. Without a doubt. |
@aberyclark few things to consider… 1. mac is decent as Roon core assuming it’s up to spec of what Roon recommends 2. Roon is very demanding when it comes to resource consumption. Using one machine as roon core and streamer is not the best approach. I have tested my Mac Mini 2018 (Roon core) as a streamer against AURALiC Aries G1 and my current streamer, Lumin U1 Mini. In both cases the Mac Mini was beat. Some of the improvements I noticed were less “digital”, less midrange glare and more relaxed, natural sound. Also lower noise floor, better imaging and soundstage. I’m not familiar with iFi Zen streamer or the Pro-Ject. But I can highly recommend Lumin. |