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Streamer upgrade

I need recommendations for a new streamer that will replace my Sonos Connect.  The rest of the system, developed largely from AG recommendations, consists of Fritz speakers, driven by a Primaluna EVO100 integrated. Sources are a Clearaudio Concept table and Cambridge Audio CD transport through a Schitt Bifrost (also handling DAC duties for the Sonos).  I'm using Amazon HD as a streaming source right now.  This system doesn't need to integrate with  my other Sonos speakers.  It's my intention that this be an end-game system, so I'm looking for a streamer that's appropriate to its level rather than something that's going to lead me down the path of perpetually upgrading other components.  Price is a secondary concern, used gear is fine.

Thanks for any advice - truly appreciated, and I'm grateful for all of the forum help I've received in the past.
philiptamarkin
ghdprentice
6,879 posts
 
+1 Qubuz
jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
966 posts
 
" It’s my intention that this be an end-game system, so I’m looking for a streamer that’s appropriate to its level rather than something that’s going to lead me down the path of perpetually upgrading other components"
So one box ? streamer/dac/managment software?
I am still riding the separate/tinker bus. I like the flexibility of being able to upgraded or change each stage. There is so much good stuff to be had out on the used market. Giant audio flea market at you finger tips. Cuts both ways as I did sell a pair of speakers I wish i had back now :(
You kinda already taken the first step by stepping out of the Sonos connect and adding the Bitfrost.
thegreenman
44 posts
 
Have heard of the auralic aries g2.1 being really end game! Other options I guess would be innuos zenith mk3 with a phoenix reclocker? 

Still exploring with streamers, just my 2 cents!
ghdprentice
6,879 posts
 
I would recommend looking at the Aurender versus Aries G2. I have owned both. I found, in general, the Aurender to be quieter with a more open soundstage. 
guy-incognito's avatar
guy-incognito
169 posts
 
+1 on the Aurender

I'm using an Aurender N100H with a Benchmark DAC 2 HGC and as a streamer it beats the pants off the Bluesound Node 2i it replaced. Aurender doesn't support Amazon HD but it does work with Qobuz and Tidal. Aurender also does over the air software updates and doesn't revamp models all the time so it's something you can theoretically have for a long time. They offer units with and without DACs depending on what you want but I would say even the entry level Aurender streamer will outclass your current Bifrost DAC so that's something to consider. 
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