Streamers 2023 recommendations

[ardbeg1975]

Currently use an ifi Zen Stream and I have no complaints about the audio quality (at least of the coaxial output) but looking at potential upgrade as I’d like at least two non-USB digital outputs (e.g. dual coaxial or coaxial and optical) to feed two DACs.

Also, the ifi has a “temperamental” software stack which can require fiddling. The older I get, the less I like to fiddle with tech and half-baked user interfaces.

Recommendations at or below $2500. Other needs - audio quality equal to or better than Zen Stream, Roon-Ready, Qobuz support, Ethernet in, preferably also Wifi capable, support for at least PCM 24/192 and DSD256, the aforementioned dual, non-USB digital outputs, gapless playback, an approachable UI, stable OS, embedded DAC unnecessary but acceptable if present.

Thank you for your suggestions.

 

[pippen99]

https://www.luminmusic.com/lumin-u2-mini.html
I owned for two years a U1 streamer. It was an extremely well made piece. I now own a T2 for use in my second system. The Lumin app is extremely stable and the U2 mini does all of the above asked functions and more. MSRP is $2400. Lumin is really good stuff!

 

[ardbeg1975]

Thank you. I was looking at the U2 Mini based on internet queries but nice to get real user input.

 

[rlanger]

The new Holo Audio Red seems to be getting a lot of attention these days. Of course, it could be the honeymoon phase, since it's a relatively new device. But the company's products are extremely well-regarded in the community.

There's an active thread here.

 

[m-i-c-k-e-y]

Get a streamer (like a sMS-200ultra Neo) or a streamer/dac (like a Gustard R26) having master clock inputs and get a LHY Audio SW-10 switch + FMC. A bit above budget but a great combo none the less. If I will have a second system will go for the later (R26 + SW-10 + FMC) w/ Roon. Just suggesting.

 

[ardbeg1975]

Thank you all for your inputs. Very helpful.