Network streamer recommendation without a dac/amp (pure streamer), under $4k

@smodtactical I am definitely going to get something that allows me to go optical from Ethernet. One way is to buy an Ethernet switch that has an optical outlet (approx. $100). Then buy a cheapo optical (not toslink) wire to go directly into a DAC. Only DAC I am aware of is feature is the LUMIN X1 which has an optical input. I see that DAC sold here used for $8K. Now the benefit behind the optical connect is that it cannot carry audio noise. So you eliminate the noise in the streaming at the source.

Now if I cannot find a used X1 or cannot afford a new X1 the Sonore System Optique is the way I will go. I have not read the review I posted above but I have been following the Sonore developments on Computer Audiophile via the egg heads over there. With the Sonore solution I would need to buy an additional DAC.

No optical, but another lesser known option is the magna mano streamer. If you've got an i2s input on your dac, it's one of the few ways to get that output option (same i2s configuration as ps audio uses). 

Thanks for the thoughts guys. Going to keep thinking about it.

One thing I like about simaudio and bryston is their long warranties, 10 and 5 years respectively.

Lumin and Aries are both around 2 years only. But I feel like they probably make the better streamers. I like the full colour display on the auralic but of course its not that important since im using roon my pc. From what I read a U1 out does the G2.. and a local dealer said they would take a trade of my Aria 948 speakers + $2700 usd for them. Or a straight trade no cash for the U1 mini. I do want to sell my speakers and this might be a good way to do it.

I have the Bryston BDP-2 with upgraded board that I bought used on Agon about 18 months ago for $1400. It's been very reliable and sounds great. I'm using it as a Roon endpoint connected with a wired Ethernet. AES/EBU connection to my Schiit Yggdrasil DAC. 

Jaytor thats what I want to do! :D

May I ask what is the serial number on your unit? I am considering a bdp2 now but I don't know if it has the upgraded board.