I started with a microrendu and then made my way up to the top of line signature renduSE optical. I think it all depends on your budget. I thoroughly enjoyed the microrendu. The more expensive units do add to the sq but you pay for each step. Btw, in regards to the upper models, I thought the optical rendu was very very close to the signature rendu se optical so if you did want to increase your budget I think you can stop at the optical rendu, a true reference level streamer. I also second the small green computer for their I5 Roon core server. High quality and good support. You can add additional sq by using a quality linear ps for the server and rendus. Plus I’ve seen all of these on sale used
Streamer upgrade
I need recommendations for a new streamer that will replace my Sonos Connect. The rest of the system, developed largely from AG recommendations, consists of Fritz speakers, driven by a Primaluna EVO100 integrated. Sources are a Clearaudio Concept table and Cambridge Audio CD transport through a Schitt Bifrost (also handling DAC duties for the Sonos). I'm using Amazon HD as a streaming source right now. This system doesn't need to integrate with my other Sonos speakers. It's my intention that this be an end-game system, so I'm looking for a streamer that's appropriate to its level rather than something that's going to lead me down the path of perpetually upgrading other components. Price is a secondary concern, used gear is fine.
Thanks for any advice - truly appreciated, and I'm grateful for all of the forum help I've received in the past.
Thanks for any advice - truly appreciated, and I'm grateful for all of the forum help I've received in the past.