Roon Tested/Certified, Network Bridge/Streamer; Less Than $1K Price Range (hopefully much less)?

Audio Gear Talk
1

For a 2nd. system, I need an Ethernet input, USB output, turnkey (no RPi), rock solid streamer with good sound.

I’m presently only interested in streaming my own music from my ROCK NUC, via Ethernet, to a 2nd.DAC with an USB input. But it’s possible that I may opt to us Qobuz in the future.

The IFI Zen Stream appears to be applicable. How about other recommendations?

Note: I found a “Roon Partner” list here: What does Roon work with?
But the list is not parsed to list only bridges, DAC’s, combinations etc. And if only bridges were listed, for my purposes the all-important price is unknown.

2

I and several others have had issues (occasional stutter) with the Zen Stream. Since you want turnkey, there are other options for Roon Ethernet>USB, such as sMS-200 Neo Network Player – SOtM USA or Stream Box S2 Ultra Bit-Perfect Network Streamer - Pro-Ject Audio USA. I’ve never used those, though, since except for the Zen Stream disappointment (from when it was impossible to buy Pi boards during COVID), I’ve been building my own streamers with small computers and USB isolators.

3

@Fernando_Pereira, I had briefly read some of the Zen Stream issues. So, I appreciate you pointing in other directions!

4

A Wiim might work for you.

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5

I have used the Pro-Ject stream box s2 ultra for over 3 years now with a rock solid performance and great sound. I use the Ethernet input and USB output (which I convert to I2S) and listen to my own files, Qobuz and Tidal all via Roon. It just works. nb Only supports DSD over DoP though if that matters.

6

If content to shop used I can highly recommend the Matrix Mini i-pro3 as a solid Roon Ready endpoint with multiple output options.
I have used both USB and i2s outputs with direct Ethernet input.

7

FiiO SR11 it’s about a 100 notes. Works like a charm. It doesn’t sound of anything that’s the DACs job. Best value usb streamer on the market. It only Does Roon or Airplay but if your using it with Roon then not an issue.

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8

Thanks everyone. All are options for which I was unaware.

For ~$100, the FiiO SR11 is pretty much a no brainer!

9

It’s great little device. Only drawback is its manual to update via USB. Update to latest firmware to get it fullly RR. It ships with a temp one that shows it as DAP. They used this to get it working on day one but latest firmware it’s properly recognised and certified. It’s very simple in its operation no fancy menus all done via the device. It’s refreshing to find something so simple in this way these days.

10

Thanks again and for the additional information!

11

The FIIO looks like a great option in truth and could be the right choice for you.

I also have a MA Mini-i Pro 3 and the more recent Mini-i 4 and they are excellent devices. It has an excellent DAC section. Having had the mini-i Pro 3 since the day after Room Ready was announced, I continue to be impressed with both of them. They work great as pre amps for me into power amplifiers.

I would also concur that the Zen Stream is passed its best before date.

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