Streamer Advice / Recommendation for Denafrips R2R DAC
You might consider Gustard x16 ... I acquired one a couple months back. High return for the price! https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/gustard-x16-balanced-mqa-dac-review.17419... |
I would also second looking/trying out the Pro-ject Stream Box S2 Ultra. I have the Pontus II and am using a Bluesound Node 2 as strictly a streamer - which is also an option, but I've seen the same opinions that the Stream Box is better than the Node streamer. The thing with Bluesound is that the streamer portion is pretty much the same with the 2/2i/new Node, so you could pick up a used Node 2 for next to nothing and see how you like it and the Bluesound BluOS controller software; I've had the 2 and the 2i and the only real difference was the features for Apple and expanded wifi connectivity
(which I didn't care about anyway and I use an ethernet cable). The Pro-ject also has controller software that you can download for free and it handles higher than 192kHz through USB than does the Nodes. Thing is, the only output on the Pro-ject is USB so if you can't use that it's a deal breaker, more or less. |
I couldn’t be more pleased with the generous insights you all have provided. I’m going through each of them and researching each of the pieces of hardware and reading reviews on your suggestions. I am very grateful The alternatives that you’ve offered particularly those which are a bit higher than my budget are much appreciated. Again my objective is great sounding music without breaking the bank. So I’m open two some redundancy in the hardware One of the questions that is rising in my mind is the control software. I became aware of the Node 2/2i softwares popularity due to its ease of use. I’m interested to hear about alternatives there as well. (It’s not a major issue if I have to use manual controls/ no remote) Please continue your suggestions. I’ll keep researching what you provide. I will be providing give you feedback on the purchase here on the forum. Again, thanks for your generous insight! |
The BluSound is OK except that your are stuck with dreadful BluOS. Oh yeah, and the Pro-Ject sounds better, I have both. Optional BubbleUPnP into custom Volumio much better (on the P-J) Denafrips has USB in, a non issue. You can and probably will upgrade the amps next, as you will hear the difference much more clearly. |
This video review of the Aries G1 does a pretty good job of showcasing the Lightning DS interface. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bO1RHX3LuQ I forgot to mention earlier, there’s also the Aries mini, which a lot of folks had good things to say about when I was shopping for my streamer. There’s one that includes an SBooster linear power supply on US Audio Mart right now for $599. Here’s a review of the mini: https://darko.audio/2016/02/audiophile-grade-streaming-with-the-auralic-aries-mini/ |
