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If you’ve heard an iFi Zen stream, anything better under $1k?

What is the best streamer under $1k? Used included.

I had an iFi Zen stream when they first came out and I put it up against a node 2i and a pi4 and it sounded the best by far using the same external DAC for each. The issue was that it was as buggy as can be but I’ve heard they are a bit better now.

it’s a steal at $400 even if you spend another $100-$200 on a better power supply but has anyone heard better?

blkwrxwgn
blkwrxwgn OP
240 posts
 

My experience with the ifi Zen was with the original release when they would send the upgraded power supply, I think that's a BIG part of the sound and would for sure suggest upgrading as a must.

soix
9,456 posts
 

So, the question now is, how does the new Node compare with the iFi Zen Streamer with their dedicated power supply on both price and performance.  Anyone?

jjss49's avatar
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jjss49
6,612 posts
 

@soix

i have both here but have not had the time (nor motivation recently) to carefully set up a comparison... i was planning to a few months back but then started messing with roon and sonore opticalrendu and related power supplies

i did not feel it fair to compare the node 3 stock vs the zs with the nice lps i am using, as i don’t have a way to use a better ps to drive the node - as i said earlier the zs definitely sounds more relaxed more natural with a nice 12v lps driving it

will come back to this sometime in the next little while

wlutke
725 posts
 

I have the newest Node with LPS and external Dac too. Surprising to read about loose bass and high noise floor.  My system easily shows faults like those.  Not present.

malibu457
66 posts
 

has anyone compared the Node 2i after the PD Creative psu mod to that of the Zen Stream?  both measurements can be found on the PD website and on the GoldenSound website.  

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