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Best Streamer for under (or not much over) $1K

I am contemplating a new WiFi music streamer (not server) with built in DAC for my stereo system. Sound quality is top criterion (contemporary jazz, classical, fusion, etc).
Currently using an old Squeezebox Duet for Pandora Premium (with iPeng app) and BlueSound Node 2 for Spotify Premium. The much newer Node 2 is acting up once in a while with failed boot ups and network drops.
Looking for one common device for all streaming services, using same control app and source selector position on the preamp. Also considering adding Tidal Masters (MQA) and Amazon Music HD (FLAC).
I do not need music library server or multi-device/room capabilities. Will be using analog output to the preamp.
What do you guys think of the Audiolab 6000N Play, or any other recommendations within a reasonable price range.
P.S., Will also consider used equipment within above parameters.
Thanks!
yoramguy1
yoramguy1 OP
68 posts
 
... and one more: Anyone had any experience with Volumio Primo? 
Thanks!
jag's avatar
jag
98 posts
 
anyone compare the Primare NP5 to the Cambridge CXN V2?
yoramguy1 OP
68 posts
 
Hello All,
In direct answer to jag, I have not.
However, as the OP of this thread I thought I’d report a bit belatedly about the happy conclusion to my quest. First I need to warn everyone and admit that I ended up considerably over budget... I also need to recognize fuzztone for cluing me in onto some great options.
For streamer I ended up with the Magna Mano Ultra Mk II. This was the key decision, the main reason being that it can be specified with Logitech Media Server software which allows streaming native Pandora (with iOS control via iPeng, essentially same as Squeezebox), in addition of course to Qobuz, Spotify and other hi-rez services.
The Mano does not have a DAC, so for DAC I actually bought both the Soekris 1421 and the RME ADI-2 DAC FS for in-home side by side comparison. They are of very different architectures, but to my wife’s and my ears there was no discernible advantage in sound quality to either one when set up at "neutral" and with similar filters. I chose the RME due to its much more powerful tone controls, and returned the Soekris to Mod House Audio for full refund (thank you Ryan!).
The Mano took some work to configure but the guys at Magna Audio (in the Netherlands!) are incredibly helpful and patient...
The RME is pretty much plug-and-play but offers gazillion ways to tailor the sound.
I am very very pleased with the sound quality and stability of this combination (I’m streaming through WiFi). Sound quality is much better than with my Squeezebox Duet or my Node 2 which have both been retired now.
One advantage for a separate WiFi streamer without built-in DAC is that it can be placed outside the rack for optimal WiFi reception while the DAC remains in the rack for convenient control and short analog interconnects.
I can highly recommend the Mano+RME combination.

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