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Best Streamer for under (or not much over) $1K

I am contemplating a new WiFi music streamer (not server) with built in DAC for my stereo system. Sound quality is top criterion (contemporary jazz, classical, fusion, etc).
Currently using an old Squeezebox Duet for Pandora Premium (with iPeng app) and BlueSound Node 2 for Spotify Premium. The much newer Node 2 is acting up once in a while with failed boot ups and network drops.
Looking for one common device for all streaming services, using same control app and source selector position on the preamp. Also considering adding Tidal Masters (MQA) and Amazon Music HD (FLAC).
I do not need music library server or multi-device/room capabilities. Will be using analog output to the preamp.
What do you guys think of the Audiolab 6000N Play, or any other recommendations within a reasonable price range.
P.S., Will also consider used equipment within above parameters.
Thanks!
yoramguy1
yoramguy1 OP
90 posts
 
"If you find one with a decent DAC for < $1K let us know. Certainly none come to mind." 
Hahaha! That’s what I was hoping to learn from y’all... 
Any recommendation for devices at least on par with Squeezebox and Node 2 in terms of DAC performance? 
"Perfection is the enemy of excellence..." :-)
rego
378 posts
 
Pro ject has a line of products in a range of less than $1k.
https://www.project-audio.com/en/product/pre-box-s2-digital/
https://www.project-audio.com/en/product/stream-box-rs/
It's up to you to decide if the price vs performance suits your needs.


david_ten
5,480 posts
 
Just came across this on ’Enjoy The Music’...might be worth looking into, should it fit your needs:

Orchard Audio Announces Their PecanPi Streamer Ultra
Orchard Audio is proud to announce the launch of their PecanPi Streamer Ultra ($799.95, yet use discount code ’preorder50’ at checkout). The Ultra builds upon Orchard Audio’s highly regarded PecanPi Streamer by adding a 5" touchscreen, built-in RCA connectors, and moving all of the connections to the back of the device. The Ultra continues to use Orchard Audio’s PecanPi DAC which also has a built-in headphone amplifier. This DAC has Roon Tested certification and supports Hi-Res Audio up to 24-bit/192kHz. The DAC delivers a high signal-to-noise ratios (SNR) of 130dB and a dynamic range (DNR) of 125dB. Digital inputs include four USB and Ethernet, with analog outputs being unbalanced RCA and balanced XLR

Post removed 
yoramguy1 OP
90 posts
 
Gents, thanks a bunch for all the good inputs.  I emailed some questions to Pro-Ject Audio (actually their US disdtributor Sumiko) and to Orchard Audio. Interfaces and capabilities for specific services are a bit obscure (to me) in both cases.  The Orchard requires a wifi bridge (comes only with Ethernet).  Will report what I learn. 
Fuzztone, I already have a decent solution for Pandora; looking for an integrated and reliable solution for Pandora+Spotify+Tidal+Amazon without needing an advanced degree in computer science...Cheers!
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