STREAMER - WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

@jrareform wrote "If you can afford it, why don't you try an upgraded power supply for your Eversolo, the Innuos pulsar and whatever Aurender you can afford and test them together.  I certainly wouldn't just pull the trigger on one and hope that I have the best for my system." and ". . .get a QUALITY USB cable" and ". . ."The Aplha won.  My wallet did not."   

RESPONSE:  I wholeheartedly agree with you.  That's my plan. . .and I'm working the USB cable made by some Swiss company that seems to be well-regarded.  I dunno.    My comprehensive cable plan will come later. My unfounded opinion is that cables refine and don't define a system.  Have one arriving Tuesday. to replace the USB that I stole from my printer. . .and like you, my wallet never wins.

@helomech wrote "You’re using tube amps but looking for an “end game” streamer vs a DMP-A8…."  

RESPONSE:  Not sure what you mean.  I'm looking for an endgame streamer.  Period.  My search has nothing to do with the A8 beyond wanting a dedicated streamer.  I've owned the A8 for two years and focused on other parts of my system.  So, it's the only reference point that I've lived with. 

I was curious about the basis for your comment ". . .as long as he’s (i.e., me) using the tube amps and BAT DAC, there is absolutely no way he is going to hear differences in streamer quality.”

@patrickalston Given your recent DAC purchase and comments, you might consider Innuos’ track record in designing streamers with emphasis upon USB as the primary mode of digital transmission - a realm in which Innuos’ engineering excels. Having experimented with various USB isolators and regenerators, I can attest to how a standalone Phoenix USB unit has performed in my own system against all skepticism. The Pulsar is now discontinued, but any current offering with optional Phoenix USB output board should be a worthy contender for endgame status. 

@ted_b I couldn't agree with you more! There's more to a streamer than just ZEROS and ONES. Things are even more noticeable when paired with a really good DAC, despite what the skeptics will tell you.  I tried several streamers and DACS  and I can attest to how good Innuos products are. 

@patrickalston you’re placing to much stock in that your DAC needs an asynchronous usb only streamer.  Don’t get me wrong I’ve owned both Aurender and Innuos.  I happen to prefer the sound signature of Innuos.  But I auditioned the N20 using usb and can attest it sounded wonderful.   Who knows, you may prefer the warmer smoother sound of Aurender.   As I’ve already mentioned they’re both great players with great tech support.  You should really audition a N20 before just writing it off for a technical reason.  It also has a pretty big screen🤓