COCKTAIL AUDIO X-45 MAYBE KNOWN AS NOVATRON
All you'd need to future proof.
All you'd need to future proof.
Another streaming newbie
If you are looking to dip your toes into the streaming pond, you could do worse that the Bluesound Node 2i. I transitioned from vinyl to streaming and started with the Node 2i. I was very happy with it, especially with the app. I liked it so much I upgraded to the PowerNode 2i. I did not see it specifically mentioned in this forum, but make sure the Node or PowerNode is a 2”i” and not just the older model “2”. The newer model 2i has better Bluetooth connectivity. Also, if you settle on the PowerNode 2i, get the model with the HDMI connection; you can always incorporate it into a 2-channel surround sound video system. BTW, Steve Guttenberg reviewed the Node 2i this morning: https://youtu.be/F31RAuvik8g |
I started on this journey long ago (tech years). Spotify then Deezer and then a shoot out Twix Tidal and Qobuz. I thought Qobuz edged out Tidal, no MQA for me, High Rez Qobuz (24/96) is enough. Started with Sonos, Then added external DAC, Then modified the Sonos each step picking up improved SQ. Currently sitting at a Bryston BDP Pi as a Roon end point with a Wadia DAC. This managed by a Roon Core running On my iMac. Glad to hear you are considering a Raspberry Pi. That’s what my Bryston is based on and I think it sounds great. The Bryston Pi is a pricy piece at $1.4k. But if you keep your eye out you can’t get them for half that. I found mine on USA audio mart for less than $600. Build your own sounds fun , good project for a retired guy and an engineer consultant close by. My local dealer here has a demo Chord DAC for around $1.5K so if you could do a combo like that you would be in around $2K. Then if you add a Roon core running on your network you get the immersive user management console. All for a pretty cheap price. My next step will be to get rid of this noisy ass iMAC and add a dedicated Sonic Transport to run the Roon Core. |
I see a few mentions for Roon, but no one has mentioned Audirvana. I tried both and for the money, Audiravana was my choice. Mostly, because it streams FLAC and most other formats directly from my iMac to my Oppo BD103 and sounds pretty good to me. It doesn't use Airplay, so the sound isn't limited to 16/44. It has a decent interface and a solid iPhone app as well. It might be something to check into as well. |