Roon Endpoint Streamers - Direct Comparisons between Current Offerings?


Have any of you directly compared sound quality between any of the current offerings of streamers when used solely as a Roon endpoint/streamer? This assumes Roon core and any local music file storage is being operated on a separate device (i.e., a separate server).

I have listed several of the current options below and while a few of those offer additional features, such as server capabilities, hosting of local file storage, or operating players unique to their manufacturers (i.e., other than Roon), I am interested in their performance solely as a Roon endpoint/streamer. Other suggestions not listed below are welcome, but please consider a $5K -$10K price range.

Streamers

  • Sonore Signature Rendu SE optical v3.0 - $5,350
  • Auralic Aries G2.2 - $6,099
  • Innuos Pulsar - $7,999

Server/Streamers

  • Aurender N200 - $6,300
  • Antipodes K22 - $9,000
mitch2

I have owned 2 different Lumin components and highly recommend their products based on my personal experience.  I would look at the U1X or U2 based on what you are describing. One of the best things about Lumin was the support.  I had some set up questions in order to maximize sound quality and they walked me through all of the settings on the app step by step.  I actually got live support not a chat bot or an "email me your issues and we will get back to you in 48 hours". One other thing I like about Lumin is that they are innovators and constantly push out new firmware updates.  Check out their website and see all the new items they have.

Good luck and let us know how you make out.

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Another option is the Bel Canto Stream 2, though it’s 2k. Mine is connected via AES to my dac, Bel Canto DAC 2.8, and it’s rock solid. The SEEK app is great and I alternate between a SGC i5 sonictransporter running roon on the same network switch.

Those guys in Minnesota know a thing or two about streaming.

 

+1 on the  A Cappella III by Musica Pristina. Under radar boutique, US manufacturer. Between $5,500 and $7,800 depending on options. I use it with my Terminator Plus via I2S and couldn’t be happier. End game for me.