Streaming is still progressing fast and furiously. It keeps sounding better and better. I would recommend a streamer brand that only develops and sells streamers. That is where I put my money. You should audition the unit before you purchase. I can't explain why but they really do all sound different. Also, make sure that the streamer has the output connections that you need as they vary. Good luck.
Help me choose a new DAC/Streamer
Fellow Audiophiles,
I’m planning on replacing my Cary Audio DMS-500 with a new modern streamer. Truth to be told nothing is wrong with my 9 yr old unit.
To give you an overview of my current set up, DMS-500 > AR LS25 mk2 > Pass X600.8 > B&W 800D2 speakers.
Below are streamer brands I’m considering, “ most of my listening is streamed through Qobuz, Tidal , Spotify" I do not use Roon, prefer to use Tidal , Qobuz cast capabilities.
Mcintosh DS200 fairly new developed model.
Ayon S-10 Mk2 signature.
Ayon S-10 Mk2 XS
Cary DMS-700 is another consideration, from what I’ve heard it’s vastly improved over the dms-500 however prefer to try a something new.
If you owned any of the above, have first hand experience , would you please share what your likes and dislikes are.
- ...
- 8 posts total
@rick_n. Appreciate your suggetion . do you have experiance with brands that do digital only ? Personally I tried HIfi rose, analog output gain is extremely hot for my preamp. I also have a bluesound node, sonically it's no match or even close to my decade old DMS-500. @soix. I'm looking for new, my budget is no more than $6K , prefer all in one (streamer). To be honest, I still enjoy tonality of my DMS-500, but it's really challenging to navigate through the streaming services. |
These guys don’t mess around with amplifiers and speakers. There is a reason why when you go to an audio show you see so many of these boxes in the rooms. |
- 8 posts total