Best Network Music Streamer for Mcintosh Equipment


Hello,
I just demo'd Mcintosh MB100, nice... but is their another brand that's not so doggone expensive and yet better sound and perfect synergy for MC501's and C2500 preamp?

RFH
roddyboy
With your C2500 having a built in DAC all you need is a streamer, the best sounding streamer which also has the best app (conductor) is Aurender, the X100 is a streamer that comes in different sizes 4TB's to 12TB's. I think they even make a 2TB one now the N100.

http://www.aurender.com/page/x100

Matt M

@roddyboy,

To my ears, the digital files sounded dull and flat with C2500 internal DAC. My source was Aurender N10. IMO, C2500 has a very nice Analog sound. If you hadn’t already done so, try some Telefunken NOS tubes. 

If you really like the ‘house’ sound and synergy of MB100 through C2500, look for a used one. There is one on Agon on for $3500.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis8e5f4-mcintosh-mb-100-music-server-streamerr-media-servers?crea...=

Outside MAC, like Matt recommended, Aurender N100C or N100H is a very good option but I recommend a better DAC to pair with Aurender.

Honestly, you’re are very unlikely to hear any difference between N100 or Google Chromecast as a digital source with C2500 internal DAC.


Thanks guys and gals, it now brings up another question. I know the MB100 has a built in DAC, what other network music streamers, w/o the high price of MB100, with built in quality DACS would you suggest? 
I don’t really like the C2500 DAC and currently use the OPPO 105D but i want to get away from it, and thought a music streamer with built in DAC would be nice. I’m seriously looking at the CAMBRIDGE AUDIO - Azur 851N Network Player. Anyone have experience with this unit or have other suggestions?