Time for an all in one streaming solution


Hey guys and gals.

I'm looking for advice on all in one streaming solution/DAC that can compete with my Chord 2Qute DAC in terms of detail, transparency and size of soundstage in the US $1500 range.

I was running a Macbook Pro running Audirvana and Tidal Hi Fi.  I then moved on to an Allo DigiOne which bested my Macbook set up in terms of sound quality but is a real headache dealing with a bunch of apps (Volumio/BubbleUPnP etc) and crappy interfaces.  And I require something my wife can operate comfortably. 

Now here is the dilemma, most systems are trying to remove brightness/glare or smooth off the treble.  That's not what I'm after.  The best synergy with my system comes with something that is very open, transparent with a lot of detail that a lot of folks may find too revealing.  (I run tubes and Audionote AN-E speakers)

The Cambridge Azur 851N is currently at the top of my list.  The sound has been described as muscular with nice detail and openness on top.  To be honest it's only at the top of my list mainly because of the price and I'm not sure of many other contenders at this price point.  

I'm not willing to sacrifice sound quality to get into a streamer though.

Or do I keep the Chord 2Qute and run an Aurender N100 or Auralic Aries with it?

Thanks for the input!





 

 




128x128hfaddict
Auralic recommends a wireless connection though you can certainly run it wired, Aurender is wired only I am pretty certain. I've never heard the Cambridge before a friend has Aurender and it sounds fantastic, of course it's a fantastic sounding all Shindo system!

I think to a certain degree it comes down to interface and usability on that scale I rate Auralic highly it's very flexible and good interface. The Aurender
Conductor app has fans also I doubt you could go wrong with either.
Thanks again for the information! I am now spending a bit more money but have decided to upgrade my DAC (Trying out an LKS MH-DA004) and purchase a Cambridge CNX just for control of internet streaming and its damn good looks.