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Music Server/Player for NOS R2R DAC

I'll spare the long story but have recently decided to adopt a new DAC that is a NOS based design and is limited to S/PDIF for input. Once I have it and have had time I'll post my observations and impressions for sound quality. Suffice it to say I am taking a different path from the direction many are going. My music collection is redbook CD converted to FLAC. I am currently using an Atoll MS-100 streamer/player. Very simple interface, software is simple but effective, and initially I will continue using this player.

I am in the process of selling my Esoteric K-07 CD player and have no plans to spin discs going forward. I am not seeking ROON, etc type of interfaces. Prefer keeping FLAC files on either a USB drive or internal hard drive.

So all that said.. told you I would spare the long story!!!... I am curious what music players/servers are out there built very well, great power supplies, and something that would be  a step up from my Atoll. HAS to have RCA S/PDIF output and preferably its own software.

I have identified  a few players thus far but many do not have a coax output.I am quite ok with buying used or demo and would like to keep my price under $5K (preferably less). PLayers I have found thus far which would work are:

Aurender N10
Lumin U1
Auralic Aries G2
DCS Network Bridge

I could buy a higher quality USB to S/PDIF converter but would rather avoid that.

I'll see how this goes ones the new DAC arrives and I experience NOS and R2R for the first time. Am very hopeful it will bring to my ears that which I am seeking! But, looking forward I am wondering what would be a good upgrade from my Atoll. Thx
jdavis37
jdavis37 OP
28 posts
 
Thanks Matt,

I have the N10 on my list to look into for many of the reasons you have also given. It has the output I desire and appears to have a good app to play the music and the external drive connection is a plus.

The different DAC part at this point is not in the equation. There are available options to convert USB to SPDIF that would work if I ever need such. That said I will evaluate the DAC when I receive it in terms of whether or not going this way actually works for my ears. I doubt that it will but we'll see! The Lampi Atlantic was my second place finisher in my evaluation of what I wanted to buy and it could resurface. if it does then USB is back in play. For now though I am very curious to see how a very well made NOS DAC will sound!
rmdtexas
12 posts
 
Have only demoed, but liked the bryston bdp pi
clyde1f
6 posts
 
I own a Bryston BDP-2 with the IAD card upgrade and like it alot...you can pickup one used for 1200-1500...Bryston software is a bit quirky, but once you get used to it it's not so bad...I also have the Bryston BDA-3 dac which is really nice.
jdavis37 OP
28 posts
 
Thx Clyde, I'll add the BDP-2 and 3 to the list! Appreciate the input!
ianrodger
164 posts
 
https://antipodesaudio.com/antipodes-dx.html
I have a DS model which FLAC rips CDs as does the DX which is a later version. They have SPDIF, coax and USB outputs
I use this with a Denafrips Pontus which is NOS/OS and is R2R type, to great effect.

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