Roon vs Lumin App


I extensively tested Roon vs Lumin app and my findings for my system is no difference or splitting hairs for any noticeable difference if any.  When I began the testing it seemed obvious that the Lumin app was sounding better, but soon realized that the volume output is significantly greater from the Lumin app which obviously makes it seem fuller sounding. I was able to balance the output as best I could by using the output meters on my amp playing the same song matching as close as possible. To make matters worse the variance is non linear, can vary with different music, and can vary as the associated equipment warms up, etc.. Key is pay attention to the output to equalize volume for an accurate comparison. I have my Lumin S1 direct to MC452 amp optimizing leedh volume in roon and the app.

 

torxx

couldn’t agree more it should be noted I did have a volume leveling turned on in Roon which would most certainly be the reason why there is a difference in volume but I don’t think that affects my listening test as I did match the output.. I got the same post going on the Roon forum may want to check into that for some responses. lumin is awesome but the app is far cry from Roon from a user interface standpoint obviously

spl meter would be ideal,, but don’t have one and not that serious about it. 

 

 

spl meter would be ideal,, but don’t have one and not that serious about it. 

You can always use your cell phone/tablet along wiht an app like Audio Tool.  Even without a calibrated microphone you can precisely match levels.

I turn the volume leveling off in Roon and been doing some testing finding the same results sure is easier to test without having to play with the volume each time I change sources

I am not convinced that there is any improvement to be had over Roon with expensive, purpose built, digital streamers.  

People I respect think there is a differene.

So I'm still reading and investigating.

For critical listening I don't use the volume control in roon.  I avoid as much processing as I can and use the volume control on the amp.

Thanks for your report.

Jerry

sometimes tweaks are minor and hard to detect. it can be so hard to compare changes sometimes and most always we are going to be expecting a difference which can skew an actual difference. i’m no naysayer on tweaks, but sometimes it can be futile.