Aurender

@ronboco

In that case, N200 with USB or SPDiF output would make an amazing pairing. No need to sweat about balanced outputs from a streamer as your B866 will decode digital signal (bits) internally from N200. 

And, if I may suggest trying a better Ethernet switch for your incredible system, 

https://www.beatechnik.com/lhy-audio-sw-8

@lalitk 

Thank you for your kind words and advice. I will look into a switch upgrade as well. Happy listening! 
 

Ron 

@navyachts  my 2 cents only because I own both the N150 and N200.  The N150 is a very good streamer and will serve you very well with your current DAC and something 2x3 times it’s cost.  Remember what’s entry level for Aurender is a step up for other manufacturers.  Just to put things into perspective concerning my systems, I use Denafrips DAC’s.  I hear no meaningful difference between the 150 and 200 until I pair it with my Terminator DAC.  I’ve also tried the streamers with a Terminator Plus that I will be purchasing and the difference between the two streamers becomes even more significant.  The upshot, imo, unless you are eventually planning a rather significant DAC upgrade stick with the 150 and put the difference into your DAC.  Also remember streamer technology is changing rapidly.  By the time you’re ready to upgrade your DAC, there very likely could be a N200, Version 2 available.  I also have a name if you’d like a nice discount on Aurender products. PM me.

So, not sure if USB or i2s is the way to go at this point. Although, it sounds like USB is the Aurenders preference for connecting to a DAC. 

Well, I’d think it’s actually more important which input is superior on the DAC, but that’s me.