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Streamer + DAC help: Bluesound vs Eversolo (vs Others)

All - my budget is uh, flexible. Up to $5K USD. I bought the hifi rose 150B but since it has way too many bugs, I am returning it. 
What is your experience look like with Bluesound, Eversolo and other brands in a similar price point? I can’t audition so I am looking to see what others have to say (if possible, as compared to the hifi rose 150b). 
(1) how is the hardware? (2) interface on the hardware? (3) app? (4) sound quality?

 

the rose 150b had GREAT SQ but the constant interruptions in playback was such a downer. 
 

what other brands can i consider?

i am weary about spending $5K without demo-ing (it’s messed up, i know) but that is my budget. of course if there is a consensus about SQ at a lower price point, then i don’t even have to go to $5K. 
 

I know, this sounds weird. But the experience with rose was traumatic. I don’t want to put any dealer through any kind of “troubleshoot with me” and “return it” ordeal again :( 

 

thank you all in advance

nathandfwacoustics

Showing 2 responses by soix

soix
9,962 posts
 

I agree on Eversolo, and although I’d definitely give the Icon at least 150 hours to burn in I think what you’re running into is that a combo DAC/streamer at that price point has limitations.  With your budget I’ll reiterate that I’d go with a separate DAC and streamer, and this Zen is still available and if it doesn’t work out you could easily sell it for about what you paid so very little risk. 

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650163113-innuos-zen-mk3-2tb/

For a DAC you might wanna contact member audioman58 about a Pontus 15th as he’s a Denafrips dealer and may be able to work something out with you for a demo and a possible discount. 

https://www.audiogon.com/stores/audioman58

soix
9,962 posts
 

Innuos streamers sound great, have the best app, and offer great customer service. Here’s a used Zen at a good price, or you could get a new Pulse Mini and add an LPS from SBooster, Teddy Pardo, or LHY for about the same price.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650163113-innuos-zen-mk3-2tb/

You could pair it with this Denafrips Pontus 15th DAC and have a pretty damn strong streaming setup for around $4k.  At your budget you could even add an Iris DDC (highly recommended) and get a significant performance boost for not much $$$ or add it later.  Best of luck.

https://www.denafrips.com/product-page/denafrips-pontus-15th-r2r-dac

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