Streamer and DDC (I need AES/SpDif output)


For several reasons I have been off music for a while but I am now getting back to our hobby. I am interested in streaming, I have an older DAC ( Weiss DAC202) with no USB i/f, which sounds best with either Firewire (anyone remember it?) or AES/EBU inputs. I am not interested in upgrading the DAC which sounds excellent. I also have a high end PC which could be used as a server and a NAS so all I need is a steamer/renderer. I see most streamers lack AES and/or Spdif interfaces and USB seems to be the generally accepted interface.

What I was thinking was using a good streamer with USB output and a DDC to convert the USB to AES or Spdif. Question is should I get a better streamer with something like a SRC-DX or a lesser streamer with a better DDC like the Audio-GD DI20HE or the Singxer SU6.

I could buy a streamer with the desired interfaces but the choice is restrictive and the better ones are beyond my budget.

Alternatively I could build a low powered PC with a linear PSU (as a renderer) and use something like HQplayer.

Streamers I am considering (I appreciate some are server/streamer) : Second hand Antipodes EX, Innuos Zen/Zenith, older Aurender.

DDCs : SRC-DX, Audio-GD DI20HE (or newer DI24HE), Singrex SU6, Martix X-spdif.

Budget: up to 3,500 Euro.

Thanks,

Greg

greg_f

Showing 5 responses by stievus

Greg, received your PM about the Metronome DSS. Can't reply as Audiogon requires my bank details, which I won't give them. The DSS1 is a fabulous streamer, very analogue sound.

A PC is not needed, unless you also want to use Roon or Audirvana. . The DSS can be controlled from your tablet or phone with the MControl app, which is quite basic. The DSS is so good that I hardly play CD's or records anymore. And I have many.

@greg_f Keep in mind, however, that the Metronome DSS while a very high-end device with a great sound, is a rather straightforward streamer. It has no remote, no display, no internal drive (though one can connect an external drive). I am fine with that, but some people want more from a high-priced streaming device.

 

@greg_f I have been in touch with them in my best french :-) No doubt, they really know what they are doing. If you are not sure, then consider the DSS2. At the moment it is on sale at Kronos AV. It is my experience that they are very helpful people with all the questions you might have.

@greg_f Not a problem. Import duties to the EU will not be charged. Get in touch with them so they can explain.