Sony HAP-Z1ES do i need anything else ?

I own two of them, one for each system so I am biased.  Once you set it up, it’s a joy to use and the built in dac sounds excellent.  I don’t do Tidal or any of the other online music hosts so I am perfectly happy.  I had an Aurender before the Sony and I liked the sound of the Sony much better. You also can pick up one used in the 1K range.  It weighs around 30 pounds or so and none of the smaller manufacturers could build one for anywhere close to what they sell for new.  Just make sure you have the latest firmware installed. 

hi, i have not keep up with all the new tech.stuff dac, streamer , etc. if i bought the Sony HAP-Z1ES and used it as my music server , do i need anything else , just cable the sony to a pre-amp and I'm off and running ? or is there a better way ? also is the sony now long in the tooth ? thanks very much in advance .

ModWright Mod!!!

It's an excellent sounding unit with great build quality.  I've had one for 5 years now.  Yes, uses balanced or unbalanced outs... or you can use a USB out to another DAC (but no need) sounds great.

Older yes, outdated well I'm thrilled with mine with one notable, huge glaring exception that Sony SHOULD FIX WITH A SOFTWARE UPDATE.

1.  ADD SUPPORT FOR QOBUZ SONY!!!! (it only supports spotify).

2.  Roon integration would be a huge, well received and awesome benefit.

But... given my choice, add Qobuz.

They recently put out a software update and I was hoping and praying for one or both... nothing.

But, it's well built, sounds great, and while the software isn't perfect, it's really good.

I've owned one for years. Love it. The last firmware update was a year ago. I'm positive Sony has abandoned updates. But no matter, it's a great gear.