Streamers
Elevate your audio setup with high-resolution Streamers, designed for seamless streaming from online services and home networks. Offering versatile connectivity, including Wi-Fi and Ethernet, these devices are essential for modern hi-fi systems, providing detailed sound reproduction and high-fidelity performance.
Streamers
Why Upgrade to a Dedicated Digital Source?
Dedicated network music players provide superior sound by isolating delicate digital data from the electrical noise found in computers and phones. By managing high-resolution, bit-perfect streams, they offer improved dynamics and imaging. These units also offer streamlined, centralized control over your digital music libraries.
Selecting Your Network Audio Architecture
- Network Streamers (with Built-In DACs): An all-in-one source solution that decodes high-res files for direct connection to an amplifier.
- Streaming Transports: Digital-only units designed to feed a dedicated, high-quality external DAC.
- DAC/Streamer Combos: High-end, integrated solutions combining network playback with premium digital-to-analogue conversion.
Key Features to Consider
- Hi-Res Compatibility: Support for premium formats, including 24-bit/192kHz FLAC, ALAC, WAV, and native DSD.
- Streaming Protocols: Look for integration with Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Apple AirPlay 2, Roon Ready, or Chromecast Built-in.
- Wired vs. Wireless: Ethernet provides maximum stability for high-resolution files, while Wi-Fi offers flexible placement.
- Output Options: Balanced XLR, RCA, and optical/coaxial outputs ensure compatibility with various amplifiers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Network streamers deliver uncompressed, lossless audio, bypassing the data compression and reduced fidelity common in Bluetooth devices.
Yes, by utilizing standard RCA connections, a streamer can add modern streaming functionality to older amplifiers.
No, they work with locally stored music (NAS) and free internet radio, though premium streaming services like Tidal require a subscription.