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Yet another streamer options thread...

I'm thinking about a new streamer.  I currently use a Logitech Squeezebox Touch with enhanced digital output via coax to a Oppo UDP-205 used as the dac.  I also have a RPI piCorePlayer and a Wiim Ultra.  I am kind of hooked into the Squeeze infrastructure, so compatibility with that is a must have.  I also require a screen display for album art etc.  Other nice to haves (but not required to have) are balanced outputs, headphone output, and internal dac that outperforms the Oppo.

The piCorePlayer is not an option for my main rig, But I like the Wiim Ultra pretty well and might go that route.  Another option is the Eversolo DMP-A6.  Budget is $1k.  Any other suggestions?

jtucker
lanx0003
1,926 posts
 

I previously auditioned the A6 (Mk I) as my first higher-end (in price) streamer and returned it after three weeks. SQ is mediocre.  I recently acquired the T8, and the difference is night and day—especially when streaming via Qobuz Connect. The T8 is fairly comparable to the Rivo Plus when using their respective apps, but with Qobuz Connect, the T8 sounds noticeably better—very transparent. Plus, the T8 is $300 cheaper than the Rivo Plus with the LPS.

I would strongly suggest adding a few hundred dollars to upgrade to either the T8 or Rivo Plus. The ICON should still remain on your shortlist, but if you open it up and look inside, the T8’s quality components, beefy construction, and feature-packed design will easily win you over.

  

jbuhl's avatar
jbuhl
1,109 posts
 

Bryston BDP-3 supports Squeezlite.  But I expect the version would be older as they have not updated MM in sometime. 

 

BDP-2 with the upgraded IAD card on USaudiomart for $750 as well. 

mihorn
907 posts
 

OP   require a screen display for album art etc. 

 I like the Wiim Ultra pretty well and might go that route.

My upgraded Wiim amp ultra might be perfect. It comes with Wavetouch power cable attached. The sound is unbeatable regardless of cost. Alex/Wavetouch audio

Upgraded Wiim amp ultra

Full - Upgraded Wiim amp ultra

jtucker OP
105 posts
 

All I see about that upgraded Wiim amp are those youtube videos.  I don't see them for sale anywhere or any technical info.  I never use youtube for anything audio.  Besides, I don't need the amplifier function.  I have a Pass integrated.

romanesq
121 posts
 

Some small inexpensive options to consider. If you have the Pi, Ian Canada designed a transport to attach also with a connected power supply. It’s seen some very positive reviews. 

The WiiM Ultra has lots of fans, whether as a stand alone or using an external DAC. It doesn’t easily allow for any external LPS type solution. Many say the WiiM Pro/Plus with an external DAC sounds better especially when coupled with a very good external power option. 

I’m currently using a WiiM Pro with an external 5v battery power bank solution which proved superior to an 5v LPS. Thinking of trying a 5v conditioner from Ian Canada. It was surprising how a 5v battery powered TalentCell device easily beat a 5v LPS.

Anyway, here’s one person who went with the Ian Canada additions to their Pi.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8KKsLiX3tRU

Also, the Gabster YouTube channel goes in depth on a lot of streamers and these diy options. He says a streamer with external DAC can be done very well and that the DAC is the more important. I lean in his direction and appreciate his efforts. 

For my "upgraded" externally powered WiiM Pro, I run two Cisco Meraki from a fiber router. It sounds great. 

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