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?
Why? Educated audiophiles can make better choices on what to spend their hard earned money on - whether that information is objective or subjective. I just happen to like to weight my purchasing decisions more towards facts than opinions.
In any case, I really don't care if someone wants to buy or recommend something if it sounds better to them. I'm just trying to point to actual audible phenomena vis-a-vis typical audiophile claims. |
I run an Intel NUC as a Roon Core, streaming Qobuz (previously Tidal). It's Linux based and does one thing with all that power--run the Core. There's no other software on it. Linux and Roon. That's it. When you use a laptop or personal computer, the unit has many other processes going on given all of the complexity in software these days. Having a dedicated streamer to feed a DAC that doesn't run other stuff should cut down on noise. If I didn't use the NUC I'd use the ifi Zen or Roon Nucleus. |
I suggest and use a Bricasti M5 Network streamer. Really nice product and sound is excellent. It has high quality build including LPS. I experienced a significant sound improvement over using my Macbook connected to my DAC. Since M5 is a NAS you can continue using your MAC as long as it’s connected to the same network by ethernet cable. I switched from my macbook to a PC laptop since PC can connect wirelessly. It works with Roon without issue. I recently bought mine used $1400 but is easily worth msrp. |
@larry5729 I had the Node 2 for a year it was great although the internal Dac was fair compared to my Pro-Ject Pre Box s2 digital dac. As a streamer, I would probably still be using it, however, it does not pass thru DSD file without conversion. I have my entire SACD collection ripped to my server. |
