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If you’ve heard an iFi Zen stream, anything better under $1k?

What is the best streamer under $1k? Used included.

I had an iFi Zen stream when they first came out and I put it up against a node 2i and a pi4 and it sounded the best by far using the same external DAC for each. The issue was that it was as buggy as can be but I’ve heard they are a bit better now.

it’s a steal at $400 even if you spend another $100-$200 on a better power supply but has anyone heard better?

blkwrxwgn
brothermikes
9 posts
 

I had the CXN V2 for a while and it was extremely reliable for me with Roon, Spotify connect and optical (TV). I also have 3 PowerNodes and while very reliable I have had a couple of issues switching between inputs that require reboot to get going again.

I also have the ifi zen stream and while it sounds great and is a good value, it is a bit buggy.

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 

Has anyone compared the Zen vs. the Sonore microRendu?

blkwrxwgn OP
240 posts
 

Thanks for the feedback.  I guess I never thought of the OS much because I use Roon exclusively. 

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,546 posts
 

The Magnum Mano Ultra is the one to beat under $1K.

vinylvalet
893 posts
 

I have several Zen Streams around the house and they worked perfectly out of the box. I have not experienced anything "buggy".

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