2. digital
  3. 144301-74203

Need DAC/Streaming Advice

I currently own a Bryston BDP-2 digital player that I run through a Bryston DAC.  As far as playing high resolution files via a thumb drive or other external drive, the BDP-2 sounds great.  The streaming part leaves a lot to be desired.  I can stream Tidal but it is extremely slow and the IPad controller is pretty lousy.  I can listen to Sonos through the DAC into my main system but obviously there is no hi-Rez via Sonos. I would like to find a better solution and am willing to start over (I can move the Bryston components to my secondary system).  What I would like to find is a higher end streamer for my main system that would allow me to stream Tidal, Spotify and Deezer if possible while also playing digital files via thumb drive etc. I have no idea if that can be done in a one box solution or if I would need a separate streamer and DAC.  I would very much appreciate any and all thoughts.  Thanks in advance.
Ag insider logo xs@2xpuppyt
Ag insider logo xs@2x
puppyt OP
97 posts
 
Headphone:

Thank you!  I very much appreciate explanation.
randyhat
156 posts
 
I own a Bluesound Node2 and a Lumin T1.  I used the Bluesound in my main system for about a year before I moved it to a second system and replaced it with the Lumin.  I was, and still am, very happy with the performance of the Node2.  Yes, I think the Lumin is better (at a significant increase in cost) but the Bluesound is a very, very good entry level unit.  The law of diminishing returns is invoked when it comes to moving up from the Node.  I use both the Bluesound and Lumin with Roon so issues with their respective apps are not relevant to me at this time but I thought the Bluesound app was very functional and straightforward.
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puppyt OP
97 posts
 
There have been several mentions of Roon. Does Roon improve sound quality or is it simply a superior interface?
randyhat
156 posts
 
Although there are facilities within the Roon software to modify/improve the sound, I personally would not purchase it solely on the basis of those features.  Roon is a superior interface...significantly so in my opinion and is worth it for that alone.  I have experimented with some of the DSP features but frankly couldn't reliably hear any differences.
mmorrison55
32 posts
 
@russellrcncom 

+1 on the mini. I just recently acquired a Lumin u1 mini from upscale audio. They offered a 10% discount for returning customers so I was able to get the mini for 1800. Still above your 1500 limit, but it’s closer and every bit counts, right? 😀

anyway, I have been extremely pleased with it streaming hi res Qobuz to my devialet. The Lumin app, is quite nice and user friendly as well, but I also am doing a Roon trial, and already know I will buy the lifetime membership as soon as my trial is over. Roon is fantastic!

regards,

mike
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