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  3. 175102-20135

Suggestions for a streamer only (I have a great DAC)

I have a dCS Paganini DAC and Paganini Clock. I’m looking for a streamer only to pair with the Paganini to stream via Tidal.  That’s it, I don’t need a streamer/DAC/etc.  I don’t want to extra for pay for redundancy.  Any good suggestions on a streamer only  that you have paired to a high end DAC with good results would be appreciated. 

 

PLEASE no “try some at home on your system” responses …. that’s the reason I came here, for some recommendations. Price range $1500-$5000.

 

Thanks!

naperaudio
pcrhkr's avatar
pcrhkr
276 posts
 

I bought a Bluesound node 2i and never looked back. The software, flexibility,   steaming options, ease of use cannot be beat. It has been reliable with no problems. I run the digital output to a Shitt Bifrost and it sounds great. I run it to a Primaluna integrated.  It sounds wonderful. The great DAC you have will complement the sound.

papafrgog
102 posts
 

I was in the same place. I love my DAC  - Aesthetix Romulus Eclipse with Telefunken & Amperex.  But my McIntosh MB100 was no good in many different ways. It had to go.

So - the Lumin U1 was my choice and the reliability, sound and interface have been a significant upgrade. I've received solid support from the manufacturer when I had questions, and there have been 2 or 3 firmware upgrades  Good overall experience.

nolojunko
34 posts
 

I have the same need as you.  I found nothing that was streamer only at an affordable price - - similar to your budget.  I looked at all "the usuals," Aurender, Lumin, Innuous, and so on.  Finally, I looked at Antipodes - but a mid-range model with power supply was $7K. 

While I made inquiries at Antipodes, I also began taking a close look at LDMS, who makes streamers only of very high quality focused use, even custom order per user needs/specifications.  And they are very experienced with Roon.  The Pico model is under $3,000.  The next up their line is $6,700 (but what is included is amazing).  It has been said that of this unit even as streamer only is preferred over other streamers/severs in the $15K to $20K, as remarked by audiophiles who moved on from some of the brands I listed above.  

jerryg123's avatar
jerryg123
3,429 posts
 

Bel Canto e.Stream, $1200 used.

coppy777
141 posts
 

At your local dSC dealer you should be able to trade your Paganini and clock for a new Bartok.  The Bartok has an updated dCS ring DAC and streamer.  You can use their Mosaic streaming program to access Tidal/Qobuz or subscribe to Roon.  Top quality sound and economical.  Or, spend some additional money and get a Rossini which also has streaming capability.  Both units will continue to receive dCS software updates which have stopped for the older Paganini.

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