Zen Stream/Zen DAC v2 a Surprisingly Good Combo
I picked up a Zen Stream a couple of months ago to use in my main system with the intention of getting a 'higher' end DAC to use with it. Maybe something from Schiit, Denafrips, Topping or Geshelli. In the meantime I took the Zen DAC v2 off my desk and connected it to the Stream to test out in my main system. Wow!
The Zen DAC has been performing headphone and powered speaker preamp duties on my desk for the past couple of years and doing it well. I never thought to try it out in my main system and wish I had done so sooner. Suffice it to say, I'm no longer in the market for a DAC from another company the Zen Stream/Zen DAC v2 is an excellent match for my main system (Kinky Studio EX-M1+ and Buchard s400 MKII).
I'm using the Stream as a Roon End Point. Setup was easy and I have had no issues with connectivity and stability over Wifi since I started using it in my system. I also upgraded to a iPowerX for the Stream and it made a slight noticeable difference to the sound in terms of soundstage.
Overall, I'm very happy with the Zen Stream/Zen DAC v2 combo and highly recommend this setup for those that don't need the tiny screen or AIO convenience of the Neo Stream. The $700 combo of a Zen Stream/Zen DAC v2/iPowerX is a streaming solution that can hold it's own with the likes of Bluesound Node and CA CXNv2 or MXN10 streamers in terms of sound quality. However, Bluesound and CA options provide a better native software solution for those that don't use Roon.
@lanx0003 I agree, technology marches on. A friend is using the Wii Pro in a very nice stereo and it sounds great. With that said, I own the Stream and DAC v2 Signature and agree with the OP; outstanding functionality and sound quality for the money. BTW, the Stream, DAC v2 and WiiM Pro all benefit from power supply upgrades. |
@lanx0003 At least a half dozen reasons why that might be. I wouldn't worry about it and enjoy the music. I often find this to be true when I insert one "tweak". But when I insert four, five or more, then it's obvious. I don't bother to go back and sort it out. Also, with hard to hear improvements, after a tweak has been applied, it leave it there for a month or two and then take it out. If find I can hear a degradation of sound better than an improvement in sound. All the above is IMHO and with my messed up, old ears. |
