Streamer/Ripper/Storage


Hello,

I’d like to purchase a streamer without a DAC. My DAC is optimized for USB so that would be my preferred connection. Qubuz will be my main source though I use Amazon also (this isn’t essential). For the last 10 years or so I used a Mac Mini with  Amarra. The Mac is no longer upgradable. I’ve been streaming directly to my Classe Delta preamp via airplay, but I’d like to use a dedicated streamer now. The computer and preamp are hardwired via Ethernet cable. 

I assume most streamers offer similar sound but I’d like a best-in-class easy to use interface. Let’s say budget is up to $5000. Can folks give recommendations please?

p.s. I’ve seen some older threads with similar requests, but was hoping to hear current offerings.

Thanks…

bogartg1

Showing 3 responses by sls883

I'm very happy with my Innuos Zen Mk3.  It has a built in cd ripper and a USB output. 

Varying opinions on a CD ripper feature. If you don't need one, don't get a streamer with the drive to rip cds.  But, if you want to rip cds, the feature in my Innuos is as easy as it gets. You pop in a CD and in less than 5 minutes, the cd pops out and the album shows up in my library.  

With the Innuos, I use a tablet to run the Sense app which is more convenient than a laptop, imo.  Before I got the Innuos, I tried ripping cds with my laptop. Not nearly as simple.