2. digital
  3. 139163-46564

Music Server/Player for NOS R2R DAC

I'll spare the long story but have recently decided to adopt a new DAC that is a NOS based design and is limited to S/PDIF for input. Once I have it and have had time I'll post my observations and impressions for sound quality. Suffice it to say I am taking a different path from the direction many are going. My music collection is redbook CD converted to FLAC. I am currently using an Atoll MS-100 streamer/player. Very simple interface, software is simple but effective, and initially I will continue using this player.

I am in the process of selling my Esoteric K-07 CD player and have no plans to spin discs going forward. I am not seeking ROON, etc type of interfaces. Prefer keeping FLAC files on either a USB drive or internal hard drive.

So all that said.. told you I would spare the long story!!!... I am curious what music players/servers are out there built very well, great power supplies, and something that would be  a step up from my Atoll. HAS to have RCA S/PDIF output and preferably its own software.

I have identified  a few players thus far but many do not have a coax output.I am quite ok with buying used or demo and would like to keep my price under $5K (preferably less). PLayers I have found thus far which would work are:

Aurender N10
Lumin U1
Auralic Aries G2
DCS Network Bridge

I could buy a higher quality USB to S/PDIF converter but would rather avoid that.

I'll see how this goes ones the new DAC arrives and I experience NOS and R2R for the first time. Am very hopeful it will bring to my ears that which I am seeking! But, looking forward I am wondering what would be a good upgrade from my Atoll. Thx
jdavis37
mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,180 posts
 
I like the Aurender idea a lot, they make streamers that are not too costly...but what you get is phenomenal in terms of SQ, USB 2.0 audio output, user interface (conductor app) and internal storage (most have at least 2TB's) plus external drive connection via USB. Regardless of which model you choose, its well worth the price in every way! Also, I would look for a Digital interface processor that would except USB audio IN and then have SPDIF as a Output. Monarchy Audio may make something like this , I would call them. Otherwise get the Aurender streamer and buy a different DAC that will take USB audio 2.0. IMO.


Matt
jdavis37 OP
28 posts
 
Thanks Matt,

I have the N10 on my list to look into for many of the reasons you have also given. It has the output I desire and appears to have a good app to play the music and the external drive connection is a plus.

The different DAC part at this point is not in the equation. There are available options to convert USB to SPDIF that would work if I ever need such. That said I will evaluate the DAC when I receive it in terms of whether or not going this way actually works for my ears. I doubt that it will but we'll see! The Lampi Atlantic was my second place finisher in my evaluation of what I wanted to buy and it could resurface. if it does then USB is back in play. For now though I am very curious to see how a very well made NOS DAC will sound!
rmdtexas
3 posts
 
Have only demoed, but liked the bryston bdp pi
clyde1f
5 posts
 
I own a Bryston BDP-2 with the IAD card upgrade and like it alot...you can pickup one used for 1200-1500...Bryston software is a bit quirky, but once you get used to it it's not so bad...I also have the Bryston BDA-3 dac which is really nice.
jdavis37 OP
28 posts
 
Thx Clyde, I'll add the BDP-2 and 3 to the list! Appreciate the input!
More to discover