+1 on the importance of ui/software in a streamer. I went from a Node to a miniDSP SHD with Volumio. Hardware was fine but Volumio was a horrible experience. I even stopped listening to music. My wife actually encouraged me to buy a new streamer! Now when was the last time your significant other encouraged you to buy a new audio toy? Volumio was that bad. Anyway, I reluctantly dumped the miniDSP and went back to a Node, but this time with an LPS, an external DAC, and fronted with an English 8 switch. To my ears, the SQ is fine with this (low cost) setup.
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.
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I have a Bluesound Vault 2i in my second system and an Aurender N200 in my main system. Both have been great, the Aurender is 4x more money but the build quality and support are top notch. The Vault has been pretty much flawless in the 6 years I've owned it. Bluesound is the best platform for those new to streaming in my opinion. Hard to beat for the money.
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I just moved from a BlueSound Node2 with LHY Audio power board and a LPS to a WiiM Ultra. I’ve always stated the BlueOS is one of the best out there. The WiiM is as good, maybe even a little better, plus the Ultra is a fantastic unit. I really do think it sounds better than the Node2 combo. I used both units as head unit, (streamer) only, via COAX output to my tube DAC. |
The Eversolo App is easy to use and reliable in my experience. I have a Will Pro in my bedroom system. I use Tidal connect with the WiiM because I like the Tidal app UI better, I use the Eversolo app with my A8. I used an RPI running PiCore Player before the Eversolo. I listen more because the Eversolo app is such a pleasure to use. My experience - YMMV. |
My thoughts are the same as @oddiofyl . I have the node N130 and the N200 and the Bluesound app is simply and easy to use.
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