Sound quality differences in streamers

There are differences, even at the ultra high end.  Some are a little smoother, some colder.  Software and UI matters.  The only server that does Roon perfectly IMO is Antipodes. I am biased (I am a dealer) but they are the only brand that uses two computers in the same box to split server and renderer duty which matters, even for streaming. This is less of an issue with software that is not Roon.  

@ricred1    I love the Oladra.  I personally run the Oladra at home as well and have for several years.  I have no interest in replacing it.  This unit will not be my last. I turn my samples over and I will buy another Oladra. 

@mitch2 i agree wholeheartedly.  The only caveat I would make is that the K50 and Oladra may be one box but they each have two computers and a clock in them. That is, a high powered server, a separate mid powered endpoint and then a clock. Two separate computers/motherboards with discrete power supplies.  The only thing that is common is the power cord and the chassis.  The others mentioned are one box solutions with one computer. 

@yyzsantabarbara i am sorry, I forgot to respond.  I had a customer who was without digital due to a product failure and I sold him my Klimax DSM sample and had to wait for a new one which took a while and is going to be on demo in customers homes for a couple weeks.  I have not had a chance.  At some point I will.  
 

What is interesting is I am not hearing much of a difference between server vs stream on Linn devices, I suspect due to the robust buffer that Linn needs for its Exakt system.  It will be interesting to see if optical does have an impact.  
 

I did get some swtitches and other devices (brands will remain unmentioned)  that I have tested prior to my oladra in the chain they have had no impact that I could perceive or they created issues that prevented testing. One device failed and others have caused network and connection issues. I have not found anything that works and makes a meaningful difference.