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Point of diminishing returns for a Network Streamers?

You have super cheap Pi streamers (build yourself), $399 IfI Zen, $500 Bluesound Node (no DSD), $700+ Pro-Ject Stream box, then $1k -$2k for Lumins, and others.

I'm running an old iMac as my Roon Core and running a super long, active USB cable to my Dac. I probably do not have to pay much for any improvement since my setup is not ideal. 

I'm really fascinated by the Pro-Ject stream box...however...would it be a major improvement over the IFI Zen? I need DSD so the NODE is out of the question .

I could save and go with the new Lumin U2 mini, however....would it be a huge jump over the Pro-Ject?

aberyclark
yoyoyaya's avatar
yoyoyaya
734 posts
 

@abreryclark, if you like Roon I would stick with using a computer of some kind as your streamer.

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

The Gold Note DS 10 looks interesting

 

 

dougthebiker
210 posts
 

I went from streaming Tidal on an iPad to an Innuos Zen MkIII with Roon.

 

it was like going from a $100 MM cartridge to a $2000 MC cartridge.

aberyclark OP
1,355 posts
 

I’ve read to where a nice higher end streamer will even make one’s mid tier Dac sound much more improved. The Lumin may be the way to go

curiousjim's avatar
curiousjim
4,640 posts
 

@aberyclark,

 I’m using a Node N130 and it does everything I want so far, but I am still mostly a physical media type. The Ifi Zen is supposed to sound great when it works. There have been a lot of complaints about it being wonky. If you buy one, buy from somewhere that has a good return policy.

All the best.

JD

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