Updating my streamer


I am looking to update my steamer from Bluesound Node - I am very happy with the sound my turntable and my analog set up and would like to update my digital sound.  I do not have a stand alone DAC so any streamer will need a built in one due to space constraints.  

Current system:

PrimaLuna Evo 300 integrated amp (currently using KT120 tubes)

Klipsch Cornwall IV speakers

 

So far have looked at the Aurender A200 and HiFi Rose units.

Thanks for any help/suggestions.  

bortonj

Like you I just added streaming capabilities to my vinyl 2-channel system. I highly recommend Innuos. I got the Zen Mini Mk3 which is the entry point into their product line. Built in DAC to get me going. Fabulous transport to connect to a better DAC somewhere down the road if I choose. Sense app fully functional and FREE. I am currently evaluating free demos of Tidal, Qobuz and Roon.

But you would need a separate dac. Gustard has the R26 and A26 dacs, both featuring streaming. That should be a big jump up from the Node for less than 2k. Reason I am not certain is I do use the A26 but with the Innuos streamer, hence not sure how well the Gustard streaming works. Check out reviews.

For me, I believe the best value out there is a used, high end Lumin (like a U1).  You can get them for about 0.35 on the dollar and the power supply is really great.  I bought one about a year ago becuase my Mac Mini (which was my streamer) had a issue with mutiple users so I bought the Lumin to remedy that.  

 

I was surprised at the difference in sound quality and I was not expecting any difference.  I bought it for a purly ergonic point of view, initially. 

 

One thing with Aurender is they aren't as flexible as your Node.  For example, they are not Roon ready, if that matters to you.

 

 

@baylinor I've used my R26 for streaming and the sound quality is quite good.  I preferred it to streaming with my Node.

The R26 has no streaming software, so I used Audivarna installed on a laptop.  The Gustard is hard wired to the router.  Laptop connects by Wi-Fi. I used this method until I bought my Innuos Zen Mk3. 

Our internet is prone to dropouts despite being high speed. The Audivarna and Gustard would sometimes stutter as a result. Not often. The Innuos must have a huge buffer because I can unplug the router and it just keeps playing.