iFi Zen Stream: Setup, Tips, Tricks...

[draka]

As far as the dropouts go be sure that your Tidal app is updated to latest version it helps.

Tidal had always been a bugger but it does work flawlessly for many , but there have been issues.

So do your hard reset as per the first post, even if you did try it again don't worry about wifi hotspots anything until it's working fully wired first, I know...PIA but worth it.

Also off you want try the ZS with coax to your Gustard see if itt responds inn the same way.

Also make sure your firmware is up to date as possible, I did have a Gustard and never had issues, but my reset procedure has helped greatly in the Tidal area,

Also off you are using a 9v power supply, not sure what you got with it, please try another 9-15v power supply if you have one. It may solve the issues.

Hope this helps!
Cheers!!

Thanks BubbaHyde, appreciate your prompt response, and advice.

I believe the Gustard is running the latest FW, but I'll double check. I'll also try coaxial and see if the issue re-occurs (awesome hint thanks).

Both Tidal app on my phone are the latest (desktop app auto updates), but yeah great advice as an out of date app can cause issues for sure.

The issue still occurs with my LPS (a Teradek Dual LPS - 12V/8A), and I checked the adapter that came with it, and its a generic 12V/1A one.

Not keen to drop more cash on another PS/adapter in case it's the ZS itself, so I'll see what iFi advise once I hear from them.

Thanks again, and I'll post back here my findings/updates in case it helps anyone else out.

 

[draka]

UPDATE: Tidal Connect stream dropped out again using coaxial after about 40mins of playing tracks. Just shows white LED on the left and waits for me to re-pair the ZS in Tidal. At least I know the issue is not just linked to USB output.


Oh well, it was worth a shot. Thanks again Bubbahyde. I'll await advice from iFi and keep you posted.

 

[endless402]

Mine drops off too. Also happens after a few hours. Not a big deal to restart.

 

[draka]

Mine drops off too. Also happens after a few hours. Not a big deal to restart.

That's fine if you think that's acceptable. I like to listen to my playlists uninterrupted where possible. I mean the odd drop out here or there is fine, but this is not that.

I've actually reverted back to my HTPC with a MA Element H USB card as that works flawlessly (connected to same router).

 

[dakchi]

I have the same problem with Tidal. Yes it is annoying but not a showstopper

 

[localnet]

I was thinking of pulling the trigger on one of these... Looks like they are still having issues. I'll pass.

 

[dakchi]

I was thinking of pulling the trigger on one of these... Looks like they are still having issues. I'll pass.

Well, we can't call this a big issue. You just need to push 'Play' again and you're done. The excellent quality of sound you are getting from ZS is worth it

 

[Mr BubbaHyde]

UPDATE: Tidal Connect stream dropped out again using coaxial after about 40mins of playing tracks. Just shows white LED on the left and waits for me to re-pair the ZS in Tidal. At least I know the issue is not just linked to USB output.


Oh well, it was worth a shot. Thanks again Bubbahyde. I'll await advice from iFi and keep you posted.

Your welcome!

Do you have any other Streaming service? There no doubt issues for some especially with Tidal Connect! But the vast majority of owners seem to get it sorted out.

In fact if you look in other streamers forums you will see the same as here, occasionally Tidal connect Throws headaches, why I do not know, but I have always maintained that Tidal itself is the culprit, Hopefully @iFi audio may have some more detailed info than I do.

In the meantime here's a few more things to try...

Set the ZS in mode 1 AIO...

Open the ZS app in browser or the iFi app...

Make Tidal Connect your only service, wait for changes to finish, reboot the unit, see if that helps.

Also Please disable your Hotspot in the ZS menu, that has also given issues with TC.

If none of that works, and you don't have access to another streaming service to try. shoot me a PM...

Cheers!!

 

[draka]

Thanks again Bubbahyde, excellent advice. I had always run the ZS with all of the other services disabled as I only use Tidal, but another great suggestion.

iFi advised (they responded to my ticket) that i also try Spotify so i set up an account last night, and i unfortunately had issues with that as well. The first session it dropped out after only a few songs, and the second session it worked fine for about 4-5 hours and then stopped (hard lock) I had to power off from the wall (white and green LEDs on). iFi Support suggested i go back to the retailer to get a refund or replacement, but I don't like my chances as i bought it 2nd hand from an Australian Stereo forum. I can only ask I guess, and see what they say as the seller provided the invoice.

Regardless, thanks so much for your help. It's such a shame i ran into these issues as it sounds phenomenal when it works.

 

[endless402]

at least with the latest firmware, the zen stream now waits for a clock sync (coaxial) before playing! Yay

 

[endless402]

at least with the latest firmware, the zen stream now waits for a clock sync (coaxial) before playing! Yay

spoke too soon...constant disconnects from tidal on this new firmware. every 2-3 songs...
should have never upgraded since i cant downgrade to the previous firmware

 

[iFi audio]

should have never upgraded since i cant downgrade to the previous firmware

Thanks for letting us know. We'll look into how make any previous firmware versions available. If it's possible, we'll make it happen!

 

[Mr BubbaHyde]

spoke too soon...constant disconnects from tidal on this new firmware. every 2-3 songs...
should have never upgraded since i cant downgrade to the previous firmware

Factory reset, returns ZS to it's factory shipped firmware, I have done itt many times!

Cheers!!

 

[Currawong]

Thanks Amos! Just to clarify, by mentioning 'them' do you mean our dev team by any chance ?

Yes, your dev team should post here too I reckon.

 

[iFi audio]

Yes, your dev team should post here too I reckon.

If only they had time to do that, but that blog post opened up some new routes we've been exploring ever since and something cool might come out of that, thanks!