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Streamer recommendations for dummies.

I’m new at this.
I need an e-net streaming device for AirPlay that can be set to a specific gain to prevent iTunes users from overwhelming my amp with the preset volume on their device. Anything above 60% is too much.
It would be nice to be able to EQ at the streamer as well, but the big problem is volume; when an iOS or OSX device sends a song to my amp at high volume (ear bud volume) it basically blows my bookshelf speakers off the stand.
Equipment:
amp: Hegel H160 -150 W RMS X2,   32-bit AKM DAC @ 24/192 except USB at 24/96 on 1 GB e-net.
speakers: SF Concerto on stands.Ben
casteeb
djones51
4,947 posts
 
The Node2i has four gain levels, disabled, track, album and smart, treble and bass tone controls and volume limits. It is also Airplay 2  though I have never used it.
casteeb OP
28 posts
 
Thanks, I was looking at Node2i, very nice... so I guess the volume limit control would allow me to set a max gain into the Hegel?
Wonder how much better it would sound over the built in DAC...
asahitoro
244 posts
 
Node 2i is what you need.
djones51
4,947 posts
 
I am not sure if it's any better but it is a pretty good DAC in the Node but  I don't use the DAC in the Node2i.  I run the digital out from the Node  to a Benchmark DAC 3B and connect the analog from that to my amp. You could either use the DAC in the Node with analog out or use your Hegel's DAC by connecting through digital. You can adjust the gain, and volume limits in the streamer and do a little EQ with treble and bass. 
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