I would add Master Fidelity DAC on your trials.
Solo streamer
I’m looking to replace my Cambridge CXN v2 with a streamer that has better SQ. I want a streamer with no extra accoutrements: no DAC, storage capacity, etc., nothing but a streamer. Is this available?
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I was looking at Merging dac on TMR but it lacks USB. |
I would not recommend Merging DAC with N200 or any streamer with USB/SPDIF output. Merging strengths lies with using its proprietary Ethernet (Ravenna) protocol. In that scenario, you stream from a ROON server directly into Merging DAC via Ethernet. I was conversing with @arafiq other day about ROON sound quality, looks like it’s gone up few notches. As a result, I have embraced ROON and sold my N30SA. |
I concur. In my system to my ears squeeze still has a little more air and separation, and Roon is a wee bit fuller/warmer, but the gap has gotten closer. I have no issues listening to Roon for days at a time and sacrifice that 2-3% just for the better UI. |
No kidding! I just canceled my Roon subscription because the sound quality thru Aurender (and previously thru Bricasti dac network card) was subpar compared to Aurender proprietary processing. But I’m sure if you have a roon centric component, i.e. Grimm MU2, you’ll be fine. My system is undergoing a few major changes. Sold my Pass Labs separates: X260.8 monos and XP22 preamp. Simplifying my setup and going the integrated route. So in addition to DAC changes I’m also between integrated amps. I’ve got two amps battling it out. |
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