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Lumin X1 with Innuous Zenith Mk3 Question

I have a Innuous Zenith Mk3 server and am considering a DAC upgrade.  I am wondering if I buy a Lumin X1, will I even need the Innuous anymore?  I have a NAS drive wired directly to my Innuous so onboard storage is not a high priority.  I know the Lumin offers streaming capabilities.  I do use ROON for streaming and run the ROON core on my Innuous server, so if I get rid of that how would be the best way to run ROON?  

By the way, I am only CONSIDERING the Lumin X1 as the DAC upgrade.  I am also considering other DACs in its price range.  The dCS Bartok is another I am considering.  While this post is not explicitly asking for high end DAC recommendations, I am also open to your suggestions.  

Thanks for your help.  I'm not extremely savvy with digital gear so I appreciate your suggestions.

128x128snackeyp
nekoaudio's avatar
nekoaudio
489 posts
 
@ozzy The X1 USB connection can be used to attach a USB hard disk or flash drive, or to output audio to an external DAC, but it cannot be used as a USB audio input like snackeyp is looking for.
ozzy's avatar
ozzy
7,471 posts
 
Nekoaudio,
You are incorrect. The USB can be used either as a input or output. I know I own one.

ozzy
fastfreight
793 posts
 
Hi OP,  Yes, I was also looking at the X1 and was surprised to see no other digital inputs.  I use my DAC as a streamer and endpoint for ROON, and also use additional optical input for TV Audio.  For this kind of money, I would strongly consider the Mola Mola Tambiqui.  I replaced my Auralic Vega G2 with the Tambiqui, and the difference was not subtle.  More of everything; better base, better resolution, improved soundstage, and more natural with less glare.  I hear all of these high end DACs benefit from a separate streamer, but also that the difference is small.  For now, I like the one box streamer / DAC and it sounds amazing.  Yes you need Roon Core elsewhere.  Hope that helps, Ken
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