For those that have separate Streamers & DACS


What are some of your favorite streamers/servers strictly from a sound quality perspective?  Please assume a stand-alone DAC.  I've read such a variety of opinions on streamers and was interested in opinions from those that have tried different streamers on with their DACs.  

badgerdms

I started with a Bluesound N130 w/ PD Creative power supply, and that fed via coax to a Denafrips Venus 2 and then a Terminator Plus. Overall I was happy with it and for the price, the Bluesound was pretty darn good as a pure streamer. BlueOS has its quirks but overall I thought it was good (on Android devices).

 

I then recently got a Lumin U1 (from an Audiogon member) feeding the Terminator Plus first via coax then via AES. It wasn't a night and day difference compared to the Bluesound, but it was a substantial and noticeable improvement across the board. Everything improved, particularly soundstage, bass, midrange, and separation. I'm still learning the Lumin app but it's ok, some things I like more about it than BlueOS some things I don't. 

 

But overall I am very content, and I too was specifically looking for a pure streamer as I like having external DACs to allow for changes on that end in the future (if desired).

I have a 10th gen i7 NUC and iFi Zen with their top power supply..which is still a switching supply (worth the expense). I will be eliminating the NUC’s fan. This feeds a McIntosh MA12000. If I put more money into this chain it will be to upgrade the D/A. I’m not convinced that more invested in the NUC will provide better sound. Upgrade the iFi maybe.

I prefer a separate server and DAC, compared to a combo server. I am using an Aurender N-100 and a Lampizator Atlantic DAC and am pleased with the overall sound.  I will say the HiFi Rose looks very interesting and my be something to look at down the road. 

After trying many combination streamer/DACs and spending thousands of dollars I have been a very happy Musica Pristina A Capella III owner for a year now.
This streamer has been Roon Ready for many years and in fact was designed as a Roon endpoint from the beginning.
The A Capella III provides my preferred output, I2S, and is hands down audibly better than anything I’ve owned (even at twice the cost).
Made in US, with direct support by the Designer, this streamer is excellent.
Kevin happily offers an in home trial, and rarely ever gets a returned unit.
Check out the A Capella III.