Orchard Audio Pecan Pi Streamer or Pecan Pi USB DAC - Which One?

Audio Gear Talk Raspberry Pi
1

I’m thinking about buying an Orchard Audio Pecan Pi to use as a headphone amp/DAC. I already have a Meridian Prime and Dragonfly Cobalt, but I’m interested in trying something else. My headphones are Sony WH-1000XM3 and Aeon Flow open back.

I am torn between The Pecan Pi Streamer and the Pecan Pi USB DAC. They are the same price. I think I have just about convinced myself the Streamer makes more sense but I’m still on the fence.

To use the Streamer, I would simply run another 6 foot ethernet cable from my switch with one open port available. To use the USB DAC, I would run a short USB cable from my RPi4 where the Meridian Prime is plugged in. I believe I would simply need to turn off the Meridian Prime to use the Pecan Pi and vice-versa.

Anyway, unless someone gives me some info I’m not thinking about, I’ll go with the Pecan Pi Streamer.

2

I’d go with the streamer. You get more functionality for the same price. The DACs in the two are essentially the same.

1 Like
3

I have 2 Pecan Pi Streamers, one in my living area and one in my office, for a little over a year now. I treasure them. They are fantastic. I am thinking of building a photo studio on to my house and if I do I will be purchasing another.

1 Like
4

I ordered a Pecan Pi Streamer, then cancelled my order. I decided I was good with my AudioQuest Dragonfly Cobalt and Meridian Prime Headphone Amplifier and Power Supply. I didn’t need to spend another $445.