Lumin U2 mini vs Mac laptop sound test

@johnah5 

What I find interesting is that you didn’t mention having to adjust volume when switching between USB and AES during your test. Do you remember having to make adjustments to match the differences in output levels or is just that there weren’t any differences?

I also have a Lumin U2 Mini which is output via AES into an Aqua La Scala Optologic dac. While I haven’t compared the differences between my MacBook Pro and the Lumin while streaming the same service I do know there is a huge difference when using the Lumin to stream local files (NAS) as opposed to playing local files directly through the dac via SPDIF.

Honestly I’m with you when it comes to the value considerations of Uber expensive streamers. As I only stream for auditioning music to purchase I find the Lumin U2 Mini to be a very good device. I previously had used a Sonos Connect and the Lumin definitely provided a few steps up in sound quality. While I have no explanations for the results of your comparison I wouldn’t be bummed out about the purchase.

I replaced the new Node with a U2 mini and heard quite a difference.  The highs are clear and pure, there’s less grain and focus is much better. Put another way, The Node sounds grainy, unfocused and a bit shrill compared to the mini.  I recently put them side by side, each with an Sbooster, and reverified.  Don’t get me wrong, I keep the Node for another system because it’s a fun listen.  
Tidal/FLAC radio> U2 mini/ Node > Audio Mirror IV DAC > Luxman  L-505uxii > AZ Crescendo 2.

@designsfx 

The volume was different until I switched the button to allow Tidal to have full control of the sound and "adjust volume with another program".   

It was a significant probelm when I first did it. 

@wlutke 

I am glad you heard a diff and that is what I was expecting.  I am surprised by the results.  If anyone is in the Indianapolis area I woiuld love to do this experiement and have them listen

there was a difference when I switched from laptop (operated on Server 2019 OS) to u2 mini.

I used usb cable.

Dynamics, imaging, bass, so much improvements.

Software is the main difference. I went the external streamer route then went back. Roon on any OS vs Audirvana on Linux, that’s the test you want to do.