Streamer upgrade advice.


Hello to The Gon Community,

I've come to the point there my digital front end is the weak link in my system. Some years ago, I jumped into streaming with a Cambridge CXN (V1). I think it's still "fine" in as much as it's delivering music that is pleasing to the ears. But, having upgraded the rest of my system over the years, and recognizing that streaming is a different game compared to 2018 or whatever when I got the CXN, it feels like time to "move up in the world". The problem, of course, is the massive number of options out there. Here are a few points I am considering;

1) I am a Mac user and so have always imported digital files using the Apple Lossless codec.

2) My only streaming service is Apple Music and I don't intend to make a change there. I've got plenty of files locally. Paying for Roon or something like that is not in the cards.

3) I don't particularly care about a screen on a streamer. I sit far enough away from my hardware and my eyes are old enough that no component-sized screen is going to be useful.

4) I do like a streamer with some sort of remote app for control from my iPhone.

So, that's where I am. Budget is somewhere in the "up to $2k" range and I don't mind buying used. I'd have already moved to a PS Audio Airlens except that those don't seem to play nice with Apple (only ethernet in and no Airplay compatibility).

Any thoughts appreciated. Remainder of system listed below.

DAC: PS Audio DS Jr

Pre: PS Audio Stellar Gold / Luxman CL-38uC

Amp: PS Audio M700 / Luxman L-550ax2

Speakers: Tocaro Model 40e + REL T-Zero Subs * 2 

gre_chan

You can get a better system by converting your music files to the general flac format and storing them on a NAS.  Then get a Bluesound node nano and connect the usb output of the Bluesound node to your dac.  Run an ethernet cable from the NAS to the node nano if possible, otherwise you can use wifi.

I think the Node may need an ethernet cable connection to a wi-fi extender at least.

Sadly, it's time to move on from Apple.  The most cost effective solution would be to get a streamer/server with some onboard storage.  Relocate the music you own onto the new device then switch streaming services to Qobuz or Tidal.  This should really unlock the potential in your system.  

If you stay with Apple you will always be handcuffed. indecision

Here’s a very good streamer w/ internal storage at a good price that also has an excellent app that’s very user friendly.  Very good customer support as well.  If interested move fast because at this price it won’t last long.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/650237304-innuos-zen-mk-3-server/