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Streamer apps critical

I don't understand why high end manufacturers release streamers with terrible apps. One of the strongest advantages of the Nodes is the BluOS app. It's simple and effective,  though not full-featured. I understand the Innuos app is great. Not all of us like much less want to pay the cost of ROON and the online apps, like USB audio Player are clunky. I would love to see a paid-for version of BluOS or other manufacturers license a common but customized app, much as early versions of Windows were available from Dell, Gateway, Compaq and so many others. 

pprocter
jceahodges
11 posts
 

I to have been disappointed several times trying to "upgrade" my streaming device. I'm also a Bluesound Node (130 version) user. I've come back to the Node 3 times after trying a Eversolo DMP-A6, Lumin U2, and then a Cary Audio DMS-700. In every case, they unambiguously sounded better to some degree, but the app was so bad it negated any improvement in sound quality - sometimes within minutes of use. I'm planning one more try and looking heavily at an Innuos Pulse or possibly Pulsar. Their app seems to have a great reputation. For me, usability of a streaming app will always be priority #1.

sdl4
214 posts
 

I have used the Innuos Sense app since it was first released, and it is the best streamer software available that balances sound quality with ease of use. Innuos upgrades Sense frequently and adds features that have been requested by users, while continuing to emphasize optimization of sound quality. Roon may have a more comprehensive set of music management features, but it uses more computer resources to accomplish that task and tries too hard to be "do everything" software that is not optimized for any single hardware system.  

pprocter OP
28 posts
 

The cost of Roon is high as are the hardware requirements. I'm a chemistry not an IT pro. I don't want to deal with Roon, nor does it seem to play nice with everything. The mfg will spend like crazy on milled aluminum  chassis an 10 inch LcdScreens but won't spend the money on software 

oddiofyl's avatar
oddiofyl
3,915 posts
 

Eversolo App isn't bad but their support is non existent.  If a FW updates is bad there is no recourse other than rolling back FW which is a pain and then turning off auto update.   Now you are stuck at that level until there is a fix.  6 months with no resolve is absolutely unacceptable 

Aurender is the other end of the spectrum all together.  Almost concierge level support.   Auralic and Innuos also have real support , not a forum of enthusiasts for help.  

bassbuyer
138 posts
 

Agree that’s been my experience.  I was staying with my Node because of the BluOs operating system which worked for me streaming Qobuz with my iPad.  I didn’t like Roon or some other ops I tried even though the streamer was better.  I found the Innuos Sense app worked for me and the Zen Mk3 with my DAC sounded better.  Ease of use is key for me.  I suggest to my friends to find a streaming service and ops that works for them when they start streaming.  

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