Solo streamer

The N200 was on my short list.  Ended up with the Innuos Pulse due to the preferred user app.  I purchased used for $2500 and added the Innuos Phoenix USB for $2000 which essentially upgrade my DAC (PS Audio Direct Stream mk 1) and and the Streamer.  Lots of great used deals available. 

I couldn't be happier with the result.

Started out with the same Cambridge unit.  Returned it.  Node N130 upgrade with LPS.  In 2nd system.  Then Eversolo DMP-A6.  Decent with a great app, but wanted more. Selling it.  Tried a HiFi Rose RS130.  Returned it.  Too much base boost after 100 hours burn in.  Tried the Pulse and loved it.  The itch is scratched.

@soix

That’s awesome, and really ballsy! Then which of your many personalities said this, in response to a member not even named MDAlton, just 7 days ago:

Streamers don’t have a sound and I agree software would be the focus.

Well that’s just completely untrue, poor advice, and the words of someone with little/no experience comparing streamers and/or has a system or ears incapable of revealing the differences. Both sound and software are vitally important, and discount either at your peril.

@mdalton If the OP doesn’t hear a difference I’ll completely believe him as I said, but as he has good ears and a good system I highly doubt that will be the case. And yes, if someone can’t hear differences between streamers, like yourself, I do assume that either the system or listener’s hearing is compromised. In your case it appears to be the latter but whatever. Again, we’ll see.

@soix

Lol!!!!! Thank you so much for that clarification!  

@rvpiano

I don't think you can go wrong with a 60 day return policy. You probably know this, but you might experiment with different cables before you make a final judgment. I don't have real expensive cables, but I can hear differences. I might have misjudged my streamer with certain cables. 

I'm using a $3649 retail streamer (Innuos Zen Mk3) and a $1650 Gustard R26 dac.  I bought the streamer slightly used for $2000.  Do I need a better dac? I don't know. The Gustard is pretty darn good for the price.