Pls help me find a network streamer w/ I2S output (not a DAC)
Hi everyone!
I have read a lot of posts and searched the forum and have not found my answer yet, but if I missed a thread regarding this topic, please forgive me.
I did not think finding a network streamer would be this difficult, but I have been searching for days and cannot find the right one for my setup. Maybe I am making this more difficult that it needs to be, so tell me if that's the case!
But first, let me explain what I am looking for. By "network streamer", I don't mean an integrated amplifier with a DAC, amplification and an Ethernet connector. There are plenty of those and in fact, I have one: the Naim Uniti Nova (great device btw).
I need a network streamer for another "separate components" system I am building. I have a DAC (LAiV Harmony DAC), a Preamp, an amplifier, and now I just want a network streamer that accepts Ethernet and outputs digital signal over an "I2S" connector to feed the signal to my DAC. So I need a device that does not have a DAC, does not have amplification, etc. Why I2S output you ask? Because that is the best connection for my LAiV Harmony DAC. Unfortunately, that also eliminates a lot of network streamers like Lumin, Cambridge, Blue Sound, etc.
I would really like to have a front display on this streamer, but I may have to go without one. The only options I have found are:
Are there others that I am missing? I know I can build one with RaspberryPI, and I have in the past specifically for Roon, but I am looking for one that has good software for various streaming apps, and is also supported by an audio equipment vendor.
I would really appreciate your help and suggestions!
You use your phone when you stream. That is your screen for artwork viewing and meta data that the streaming services provides. So the actual need for a screen on the unit becomes almost mute. Also let the manufacturer put the money on the inside of the unit instead of fancy baubles. You’re right that Interconnect is a tough one. Here is one of the First to incorporate this technology.
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gkelly, thank you very much for the response. I had not considered the PS Audio Airlens. I'll look into that! I get your point regarding the screen, that is why I considered the Halo Audio Red and Volumio Rivo Plus, neither of which have a display. |
The Innous Stream3 has a PhoenixI2S output board as an option. I believe it is even more expensive that the Hifi Rose RS151 though. It does not have a front display but does have a nice IOS app for iPhone and iPad as well as browser control if you prefer using a laptop. An IR remote was also just announced. The PhoenixUSB output board might be an even better option if you have a USB DAC which is what I use on my Stream1..
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Could you find a used DDC to put between the streamer of your choice and your DAC? For example: https://tmraudio.com/fresh-arrivals/denafrips-gaia-ddc-d-d-converter/
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Where did you read that from? I hope it’s not from forum posters here. All the trustworthy reviewers praise it highly, neck and neck with the Rivo+. As an owner of both, I find the T8 sounds a bit brighter (but not edgy—on the bright side of neutral), fuller, and with more bass presence than the Rivo+. When listening via QC (Qobuz Connect) and using I²S, the T8 also sounds more transparent. Soundstage-wise, they are comparable, but the T8 feels a bit more immersive, better filling in the separation among instruments. |
