iFi Zen Stream - Great sound for the price!

[@ahmadhusaini8420]

Ok, I have this for a few months now. I've done a lot of experiments. Conclusion, make sure your; 1. Power supply (from the power source, don't use cheap power conditioner, it will GREATLY reduced dynamics, no power conditioner is better than cheap conditioner). 2. Please USE COAXIAL only if you want the BEST OF THE BEST from Ifi Zen Stream. I've done A B test between coaxial and USB, the Coaxial gives TONS OF AIR AND CLARITY, meanwhile, USB from Ifi Zen Stream kills a lot of air and resolution. Now, yes. BEST OF THE BEST STREAMER PERIOD.

[@irisfinchmusic]

I've added Audirvana Studio software to my Zen Stream (SBooster power supply). Audirvana makes a gigantic improvement!! (previously, I had been using the Zen Stream software (Volumio), MConnect & Tidal Connect)

[@xcountry6709]

So glad you finally got to review this unit! I have been using it for over a year now with the iPower X and it is just wonderful! Enjoy!! Cheers!!

[@buckethead84]

I've had this streamer for some time now, I went through all of the upgraded ifi power supplies and at different voltages (has a wide voltage range) and eventually settled on the sbooster 15v. I can't imagine many streamers in the sub $2500 sounding better, I've also gone the extra mile of upgrading the fuse on the sbooster too. The device is very responsive to power and if you're willing to spend the money you'll be rewarded accordingly. That said, the device isn't exactly a polished product like the bluesound so it does have some software quirks, but I use tidal connect only and since the last software update I haven't had any issues.

[@lanx0003]

So you basically double the price. How does it sound compared to the computer?

[@zoranjovancic9816]

Which ifi power supplies you used on zen stream

[@klepp19]

Do you use USB or coax out?

[@GPintoFerrao]

Hi, I have the iFi Stream loading my second set as Roon endpoint and, for my ears, I don't need anything more. You need to spend 3 to 4 times more to have noticeably better sound and I think it doesn't worth it, taking into mind the extreme youth of technology. Thanks for the review

[@clarkejones8090]

Excellent, thank you. I forget how long it has been since I (or the KZbin software code ) first found your channel, it might be approximately a year. It seems that , at least at the budget level I play in, new streamers and DACs are improving in sound quality. You explain things so well to a non tech savvy person such as myself. Although perhaps not emphasized in this particular review, your attention to sound reproduction, your fine descriptions regarding the sound are greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@frankygoossens955]

Nice review, I've got the Zen Stream + Ifi Ipower Elite, you will get a even lower noise floor and better sound quality, imo under 1k there is nothing better.

[@mariuspessah2991]

A fabulous encyclopedic review . Your reviews are very accurate and I really have an idea of what the product is like . Thank you so much .

[@phantomplastics6582]

I got one of these this week when my ultraRendu stopped working. The iFi Zen Stream is very easy to set up and sounds incredibly good when used with a linear power supply. Wanted to buy the Mercury Streamer but it's off the market. If you want "revenge on iFi" then try their AC Purifier. I bought one and it measurably increased noise in the AC!

[@janwillemkuilenburg7561]

Yes, a better power supply brings it to an even higher sound quality.

[@Karim-ik5ij]

Yeah ok. How high do you have to be to feel that

[@MX-S]

Exactly, everyone keeps saying that when all the streamer is doing is sending bits to the DAC. Things like noise floor / all-features-on switch / power supply affecting a STREAMER means that the streamer is DEFECTIVE. Point Blank.

[@dajikbatarang1]

Great review, you've really been on fire lately! This is the streamer I use in my system with the ifi ipower supply. Ive tried it with both Roon and Tidal connect mode, I prefer the sound of Roon compared to Tidal connect. Prior to this I was using the Allo USBridge signature to which I found the Zen stream a worthwhile upgrade.

[@simplereef4854]

I was sucked into the hype of Allo USB. Not any more!!! Just about every product that I heard is better than the Allo USB.

[@moblitzz]

I don't remember which video you mentioned Zoe Keating in but WOW!! Just plain old WOW!! - Decided to give it a listen and was blown away. This isn't really my main type of music but certainly excellent - thanks for the heads up on this artist.

[@joenogueira2801]

I use this streamer with the better power supply you showed and use USB to Denafrips DDC Iris before sending it to my Denafrips Ares2. The addition of the Iris in this chain is absolutely magical! If you can get a hold the Iris, you’ll be set for life. 🍷

[@torarnekvaly7753]

I have the same setup. So good. 👍👍

[@clemleg123]

@@torarnekvaly7753 you know you make it quite obvious that you work for Denafrips right?

[@reptidan]

Thanks for making me look into that combo sir! 🙏🏼

[@willmac5642]

Does iris help with detail retrieval?

[@joenogueira2801]

@@willmac5642 yes. It provides a darker background. I also noticed an expansion of my soundstage. It’s glorious and my favorite part is the negligible cost. 🍷

[@assal_jakob]

Thanks for the review, ifi is a hardware company ,you forgot to talk about the app or the software to run it ,I got the pi2 design mercury few months ago part of the beta units ,I've been running it with different pi media players apps like volumio & moode player , continuously without restarting for more than 3 months ,streaming to 3 DAC's at the same time .I can't imagine myself paying more for any streamer ,the sound is fabulous and I'm pretty satisfied

[@chengo51]

I would appreciate if you could describe your DLNA system, what is connected to what ...etc...

[@larryxlchen]

need help on this one as well, thanks.

[@anthony2010707]

Just wanted to thank you again for introducing me to the dlna streaming option, i can now bypass the unstable ifi app.

[@edverbeek6292]

Again a great comprehensive and humorous review. I use the Pi2AES and experienced a much much better sound quality by using a better powersupply AND using seperate power supply for the raspberry Pi and the Pi2AES! (my preferred power supply: Jung Super Regulator)

[@navinadv]

Are you using the Jung for the Pi or for the Pi2AES? What are you using as the second power supply?

[@edverbeek6292]

@@navinadv For the Pi2AES I use the positive rail of the cheap Jung Super Regulator board sold by multiple sellers on the Chinese webshop A…X…ss (€35,50 tax and shipping included to Europe ), set to 24V, connected to the regular power jacket input of the Pi2AES. Make sure you remove the jumper on the Pi2AES to separate the power supply of the Pi2AES from the RPi. For the RPi this cheap Jung Super Regulator did not deliver enough power, so for the RPi I use the oversized Jung Super Regulator board sold on the same webshop by Nvarcher (€44, tax and shipping included to Europe). I got the best sound quality by connecting that power supply @5Volt directly to pin 2/4 and 6 of the GPIO. (be careful power savety circuit than is bypassed) I experimented (also for digital and analog stages of my DAC and for my audio switch) with different kinds of Studer900 and Sigma22 /Sigma11 boards and a so called class A power supply board, but the Jung Super Regulators sounded the best by far. The oversized Nvarcher board even the best, so you could buy that one at once in stead of the (little) cheaper Jung Super Regulator board.

[@edverbeek6292]

PS adding a little LT3045 LDO circuit after Jung Super Regulator again gives improvement in sound quality!

[@markcarrington8565]

Hi Srboljub, another great review. The company is based 30 miles from my house, so I feel like I’m buying locally, even though the products are manufactured in China. I’ve been using my Stream for nine months and I love it. It does duty as a radio streamer using Airplay from my iPad during the day and for Tidal connect at other times. The sound is brilliant hooked up to my Zen Signature DAC and it improved another step when I connected it using a linear power supply. Keep up the good work.

[@zoltancsendor5153]

After the rave reviews I pulled the triger and bought one a year ago to replace my Mac mini, Audirvana, Schiit Eitr (usb to spdif) chain for make things simple. I also tried Node 2 and I liked Ifi Zen better with linear psu, but it was nothing close to my old system. When I reconnected my old stuf the life come back to music. I sadly had to return Zen. DAC is Naim old multibit going to NAIM pre and power amp. Thanks for your excellent reviw, Zoltan.

[@benjamin_hill]

Is there a reason to go for the 12V rather than the 15V upgrade supply? I would have assumed the 15V would provide the better result (although the difference would likely be inaudible).

[@massimilianomilanese504]

Ho. At the end, do you use 15 or 12V to power it? How many A?

[@pv8203]

Another comprehensive and clear review from you, also answering key potential consumer questions. Thank you! I hope it's ok to ask a more specific question of mine: I am currently streaming Spotify (premium) via Chromecast Audio optical output to the SMSL Sanskrit V2.0 into a Rotel A11 Tribute amp and a pair of Focal Aria 906 speakers. Question is, would I get noticeably better sound if I replace the Chromecast Audio with an ifi Zen to stream Spotify connect in the above set up? Or would a streamer/ dac solution like the Argon Solo improve the sound of my system? Just to help you frame my questions as regards potential future upgrades I am considering for my system: - I do plan to change from Spotify into Tidal or Qobuz as I really appreciate the breadth of genres of music it includes (also from my home country, Greece) - streaming to me is also a journey of musical discovery. - I also have a collection of CDs that I slowly grow and vinyl from the past with an adequate CD player from Marantz and turntable from Project (via an ifi Zen phono preamp)... And I do plan to rip my cds to manage via a home network (e.g. via Roon). - I am considering upgrading my amplifier to something that would keep the Rotel's clarity, matter-of-fact naturality, instrument separation, breadth of soundstage, grip & control but on muscle/ heftiness/ fullness of sound and perhaps on some soundstage depth (budget for this at approx. €1000). Really look forward to your thoughts.

[@PauloFerreira-hh6zv]

By connecting ipower X to Ifi, it makes Ifi Zen Streamer gain a greater advantage, being better than PI2AES and Lindemann more evidently. Did I understand correctly?

[@riccitone]

Great comparison! I've now got a Pi2design Mercury, and am waiting with bated breath to see what you find in comparison to these others 🙏

[@JP-zh6ss]

Hi, I agree with this review completely, I bought this device when it was released, loved it so much I bought a second one. I used it as Roon end point in both case. Sound is as you say much better than Bluesound and also I find streaming much more reliable (I keep the devices off and start before each listen).

[@geowoc7537]

Curious if you have tried Audirvana through a PC/Mac compared to dedicated streamer. Pretty impressed with Audirvana.

[@nenadb7731]

Odlican test, svaka cast Srboljube. Reci mi da li si testirao eksterne HDD na strimeru? Rade li eksterni HDD 4TB na njemu? I koja je tacna oznaka IFI iPower X? Voltaza i amperaza. Ocena za test cista 10. Hvala unapred na odgovorima, pratim tvoj kanal. Pozdrav.

[@iiWiReviews]

Hvala. Nisam hard disk kačio na njega a iPower X je 12V/2A... Mada može raditi sa bilo čim od 9 do 15V.

[@D1N02]

Pi2Design Pi2AES is out of production. They now recommend their Mercury Streamer but that is sold out

[@rosenlazarov]

I had AlloDigiOne too .... Zen Stream is way better in every possible way. More musicality and poping details. If considering streamer ....go ahead save the time and money - get Zen Stream! A better linear power supply do help Zen Stream too. Not an enourmous leap but not bad.

[@BackwardsCompatible-Not]

Hi, the iFi Stream sounds great but more should be made about how glitchy the iOS software is. I have used Volumio on many Pi streamers without issue but this version is super buggy. No plugins either. A real shame and the player deserves better. Thanks though for taking the time to review 👍

[@johnkom2339]

You have another vote on that one.

[@michaelwright1602]

I had one, sent it back, buggy as hell. I went with the Mercury V2, loaded up RoPieeeXL on it and am not looking back.

[@andrewmccorkell652]

Great sounding product which is why it's still in my system, the cons are you need to run it with wired internet, do not use the volume control function, tidal connect has some issues, the app sucks big time and I am still waiting for the Chromecast connection they promised when the unit was released.

[@rosswarren436]

What issues does it have with Tidal Connect? I'm subscribed to their Hi-Fi tier and love it on the Wiim Mini in my den but was looking for something "better" to use in my living room. Thanks. I need something reliably connecting to Wi-Fi though, so maybe this Zen Stream isn't the right ticket.

[@andrewmccorkell652]

Using tidal connect the first track you select will not play, after that it is fine. Also you need to clear the tidal play q if you switch music apps or they will. have connection problems with the Stream. I had occasional dropouts using tidal, not sure if it was wifi or tidal problem but ethernet cable fixed it. I had Google Chromecast and Arylic streamers and this was a big upgrade in terms of clarity, tonality and 3D Soundstage. O and the optical connection is not as good as the USB or coaxial.

[@rosswarren436]

@@andrewmccorkell652 thanks. I use Tidal Connect and that would drive me crazy. I'll look at it again when they iron out all those issues or come out with an updated "MK 2" that does. Appreciate the information. If iFi would fix those I wouldn't have to buy a Bluesound Node and spend $$ on its internal DAC that I will never use. And with their better technology, as you state the Zen offers clarity, tonality and 3D Soundstage. Good to know. I'll keep it on my short list of streamers.

[@andrewmccorkell652]

There is a KZbin video from Audio Excellence Canada which compares the Bluesound node against the stream which sold the stream for me. if all you want to do is tidal or spotify connect or use Roon then this does it. I also use a third party app to pull music off a NAS. if you want a better user experience and are willing to sacrifice a bit of sound quality then the Bluesound would be the one to go for.

[@cablebrain9691]

I'd love to hear an in-depth review of the miniDSP SHD streamer, DAC/preamp, digital processor (with Dirac Live), along with comparisons to other equipment combinations, or how it would fit in as a signal processor only, in a stereo setup.

[@bubblehead5394]

I was wondering the same exact thing. Especially since the miniDSP SHD would have to be connected via coaxial.

[@asan1050]

Thanks! Srboljub Stojanovic !

[@dansiaopingpong4538]

I understand that the question is strange, maybe this information is somewhere, but I can't understand completely - does ZEN read music files independently through its USB port from an external disk or flash drive or does it need to be connected only to an external server via Wi-Fi? I'm going to control this device through Audirvana. Thanks in advance for your answer, if possible.

[@mpadierna]

Thanks for the great and informed video. Now, have you checked out the NEO STREAM + DAC from ifi? I'm looking forward for your review.

[@samueltekle5642]

Love your videos mate 👍🏾. Very helpful 😊 Keep up the good work!

[@igaldins]

I have it. Use it with Tidal connect. Coax cable into Schiit modius. It sounds really good. I use the WiFi connection and I have to reset it too often. Maybe it is because my WiFi is too far away. Still I like this streamer for the sound and the looks and Tidal connect.

[@bubblehead5394]

Amazing review! Keep up the great work.

[@amandeepanand9972]

Excellent review! A couple of questions: 1) Are their any difference between using the S/PDIF vs USB to connect to a DAC? 2) What DAC would you recommend? The ifi DAC is an easy option, feels disingenuous to get an external DAC with a headphone amp built in to power my stereo system.

[@iiWiReviews]

1) Small differences can go to one side or the other depending on your DAC too. I personally prefer SPDIF but if you care about MQA for example, then USB is the one that supports it. 2) Think about headphone amp as a very small addition that doesn't make a difference to your main use case. For example SMSL M500 MKII is one of my favorite DACs. It does have a headphone amp but it's barely avarage... It's a great DAC before anything else.

[@ahmadhusaini8420]

Dont use USB connection. Greatly reduced the sound quality. I've done A B test with this. The fluidity from ifi zen stream coaxial is crazy good.

[@craigyoung3211]

Thanks. Just picked one up, outside box has an ipower sticker so came with that PSU :) second comment mentioning a new one coming out soon :( I’m noticing it’s much better than my pi3b running volumio 3 with or without HAT so I’m pretty happy. Got to listen for next few day’s. I believe it has a CM4 inside but the addition of the low noise circuitry is worth it. I can get the pi3b running Tidal connect in volumio 3 and it also sounds great.

[@christiano3254]

Great video - did the streamer have a standby function? or autostandby? Greetings Chris

[@iiWiReviews]

Not that I know of, but it doesn't consume much power when in idle. Few Watts. That's equal to the average router for example (that we leave on at all times).

[@anthony2010707]

Hello sir, hope you are well, i wanted to ask, i turned off the display lights by pressing the hot-spot button on the right, how do i get the lights to come back on, the two in the front?

[@xstensl8823]

IFI may come out with a Zen Stream MK2 this month which should be less finicky.. hopefully.

[@rosswarren436]

Haven't heard about that. Sounds promising. Earlier reviewers of this model said it often had wi-fi connection issues which would be very aggravating in a streamer.

[@stargator4945]

I believe that the hardware is quite good. But it was said that the volumio implementation was not very stable at the beginning. Also, volumio usually supports extensions not supported by the iFi Zen Stream. As I like moOde or Volumio, my question is the usability with the Zen Stream when using a Computer, Roon or iPhone/iPad. Did you experience any back draws compared to the plain Volumio or the Bluesound that currently sets the standards in usability?

[@mcjunior79]

Your question is very important, a pity it remains unanswered! I bought the SMSL SD9 based on his review, the sound quality and build quality is excellent as he said, however, the SD9 software is a shame... Too bad he didn't pay enough attention to this part in the SD9 review, and it seems he didn't take this into account in the Zen Streamer review either.

[@stargator4945]

@@mcjunior79 Someone just told me that since they use the latest update this year (2022) they use Volumio 3 software which is much better than the version that shipped with. however, the extension question is not answered yet.

[@mizujunior2519]

@@mcjunior79 Do you still have the streamer SD9 and have you used I2S? did you compare to the zen?

[@mcjunior79]

@mizujunior2519 No, i don't have both anymore. Now using an Eversolo DMP A6... better so far!.

[@yydingg6936]

Excellent review! In terms of SQ improvement, how does iFi Zen Stream compare with adding a similarly priced DDC to the laptop USB/DAC chain?

[@iiWiReviews]

I could say that Zen Stream easily beats iFi micro iUSB 3.0 that I used to have. Intona Industrial version on the other hand would probably put a good fight...but can't say more without a direct comparison.

[@bobb.9917]

Great review on a really beautiful little streamer! I LOVE all my separates. This one seems like a no-brainer. If I did not have a Marantz SACD 30n and Mercury Streamer I would be all over the iFi Zen! Can’t wait for your Mercury review…and hoping that you will explore the I2S connection to an R2R DAC!

[@iiWiReviews]

I do occasionally use I2S but different pinouts make it a real hassle for reviewing and comparisons. For example, Mercury works with Pegasus over I2S but doesn't work with Ladder Schumann. But when it comes to sonics it is a very good choice. BTW, Mercury is really good. 👍

[@bobb.9917]

@@iiWiReviews Yes… I have found it to be very good! Sounds a little better than my Marantz SACD 30n (internal Burr/Brown chipset or data out to my Pontus) ..but I cannot really compare the two evenly for all the reasons that you mention. The Mercury uses The PS Audio Standard pin config. for the HDMI output. I can reconfigure the HDMI input pin designations with my Pontus…Can you do same with the Ladder Schumann? It came from the same factory as my Pontus! 🙂

[@mcjunior79]

Congrats for this nice review! 👏 👏 I would like to know how it compares with SMSL SD9!

[@iiWiReviews]

Stream is slightly more revealing, with better layering and a bit more air. They were both compare using SPDIF output as that is the one they have in common and same cable could be used.

[@JTACTR]

I've had a lot of problems with this unit! It forgets it's output settings constantly. They make you run on Beta software which is not intuitive... Unless they fix it properly...Just get something else...

[@michaelwright1602]

Sent mine back for that reason, I hate being a beta tester.

[@NeilBlanchard]

Good to know - unfortunately, I want/need to have a Radio Paradise client app in my streamer - a Pi can do this, and the Bluesound Node units. I have a Node 2i and I just ordered a power supply interface from PD Creative (in Poland) that will let me use a 5V linear power supply, to upgrade its performance.

[@frankj.mendelson5526]

Consistent, informative, clear and concise- great reviews as always. My question, how would this compare to running a pc/laptop - I use both Fidelizer and Audirvana-- to my DAC)s) using USB from Laptop to DAC (BiFrost2 and Gustart X26) - Thank you!

[@shkermanshahi]

Thanks for the review. Did you use any Pi2AES or ifi with any linear power supply? That is a game changer

[@aleksanderp.4373]

I would like to know this as well. When you draw comparissons, was that both pi2aes and stream on default switching power supplies, both on filtered ones or linear ones?

[@iiWiReviews]

I regularly use Pi2AES with Allo Shanti LPS. But it is 5V so it cannot be used for Zen Stream. So both Pi2AES and Stream were compared with iPower X for fairness.

[@aleksanderp.4373]

@@iiWiReviews Excellent! Do you hear distinct differences between standard meanwell switcher, ipower x and shanti (on pi2aes).

[@shkermanshahi]

@@iiWiReviews Pi2AES needs a 24 v power supply. Shanti can't do it.

[@iiWiReviews]

Yes it can. 😉 There is a hack enabling Pi2AES to be powered by 5V PS. You can find deteils about it on Goldensound website.

[@willmac5642]

Argon Audio Solo Vs ifi Zen Stream?

[@pinkyfloydyfan1]

I have the iFi Zen Stream and i really love it. I like your reviews so much with your pronounciation, it helps me to understanding very well, 'cause english is my 2nd language. I have the Zen with Denafrips Ares 2, Hegel H190, Focal Aria 926. My next upgrade/change will be on the speakers 'cause those tweeters gives so bright/metallic sound. I guest for Buchardt s400 mark 2 ou Kef LS50 meta. What is your suggestion for my speakers?

[@iiWiReviews]

I haven't heard S400MKII but few people that I fully trust praised them to be better speakers than LS50 Metas, and I would be willing to try them out in your place. They do offer a nice return policy if needed too.

[@JP1050x]

Dynaudio, Sonus Faber, and CSS Criton are supposed to be good. I like my Q Acoustics 3030i’s, but I might go with CSS Criton 1TDx for my next stand mount speakers.

[@anthony2010707]

Thanks for your lovely review, can i ask if you are using mode no 5,which is DLNA how do you stream music through the zen with this setting, PC or android device, thanks.

[@iiWiReviews]

I use DLNA mode with android device and Bubble UPnP app.

[@anthony2010707]

@@iiWiReviews Okay thanks very much.

[@MrTrigovina]

Thanks for your reviews. Nowadays i am looking for a streamer with spdif and coax input. Please can you give me an advice which product has more flat, acoustic and easy to use of app? My budget is limited to 500 usd. I will connect it to my Topping D70 pro sabre dac. Thanks in advance.

[@iiWiReviews]

Take a look at the Wiim Pro

[@MrTrigovina]

@@iiWiReviews I have tested it and just sold. Looking for something better. Or i can also sell my dac and buy all in one device, streamer and dac. What do you think about cxn v2? Topping D70 pro sabre + wiim pro plus or only cxn v2? Which one do you prefer?

[@jamesminotto8036]

I have both the Node 2i and the new Node. Thoughts on the new Node compared to the Zen? I like the BEOS feature of the Bluesounds. Great review. I have the iFi Zen phono amp. Great company!

[@iiWiReviews]

I haven't heard the new Node. Feel free to share your own opinion and is it a noticeable improvement over the previous one.

[@steven2809]

Audio Excellence Canada preferred the Zen Stream to the Node 2i...no contest!

[@TriAmpHiFi]

Best Wired Audio Streaming Signal Chain? Coax Cable in from street, A/D converter (modem), Ethernet cable out, Streamer, USB B 2.0 cable out, D/A converter (DAC), balanced XLR cable out. Best chain. Correct? Which converter or streamer can be debated, but not the signal chain. Right?

[@michaelwright1602]

Put this in your chain... NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS108Ev3)

[@antergonza6476]

Thanx for comprehensive review

[@GB-up6nl]

Can you review the argon solo and compare it to the stream. ?

[@weirdplanet1082]

How are these used with my main tower PC? I have decent Edifier speakers with my PC. I'd like some decent bookshelf speakers in my kitchen that would be able to stream wirelessly from my PC in my living room. Would this streamer help in that endevour?

[@ssavic17]

Hi, can you do a test with Zen streamer and Zen dac 2 as "two in one? I am interested in whether a better sound will be obtained compared to using the spdif (coaxial) output on Zen streamer? I keep in mind to interconect Zen streamer with Zen dac 2 and after that to interconect with power amplifier with good rca cables. You can share your opinion about that if you are not planing to make test with both devices.

[@Temmple]

What is your current favorite dac pairing in the $1000 range with the Zen Stream? Cheers

[@ramires100]

If I have an audioquest dragonfly cobalt, should zen stream be the perfect option? Regards

[@davidzwicker9988]

My older R2R dac can’t handle higher Tidal resolutions so am using my Cobalt dac in the USB out. Sounds very good but has lower output so requires considerably more volume gain on the preamp.

[@reyiiteleco]

awesome review, keep it up.

[@reptidan]

I’d be VERY interested in a comparison with the sotm sms-200 neo. 🙏🏼

[@joshuaschneck]

Nice review. I have a zen stream with an Mcru 9v linear power supply. It definitely sounds better than a bluesound node that was my prior streamer. I also feed the output into a Denafrips Iris d2d, that cleans uo and reclocks the output to I2S output. Wondering if anyone has had similar experiences or has found something even better??

[@stevenpaul3886]

I’m doing to same, DDC Iris into Pontus II, it’s unreal and love this thing. I just ordered an Auralic G 1.1 to see if it’s able to add a big jump up in SQ, I did try Aurenda H105 and it wasn’t that much of an upgrade from the Zen so it went back and I didn’t like to software.

[@joshuaschneck]

@@stevenpaul3886 Hi Steven. Great - would love to hear about your experience with the Auralic vs zen stream.

[@seanoreilly8603]

So matching against all the streamers you have reviewed recently, is this still a good stand alone streamer if you have your own dac and can connect to your network direct. Thanks for any info you can give me.

[@iiWiReviews]

It is a good streamer and great value still. I only found Eversolo DMP-A6 to be a meaningful upgrade to it, but it comes at twice the price and the rest of the system should be good enough to show the difference.

[@CaptBadLad]

Any opinions of whether the Zen Stream is worth the cost over just buying a Zen Bluetooth?

[@iiWiReviews]

Both serve different purpose so between the two I would choose looking at their functions. If you want a Bluetooth connection directly from your phone and also could use analog outs... Zen Blue might be a better choice. Zen Stream uses WiFi and has only digital outputs, so you have to use an external DAC... But it is a better sounding digital source of the two. If the rest of the system is good and resolving enough, I would go for Zen Stream.

[@CaptBadLad]

@@iiWiReviews thanks for the reply. Yeah I already have the Zen DAC v2, and do not want use it only when my laptop/desktop is on. As a bit of background, I am connecting that ZEN DAC to a Sundara headset via 4.4mm balanced cables.

[@ahmadhusaini8420]

@iiwi reviews Please review Wiim Mini when you have a chance. Compare it with all pi4Aes etc.

[@Dato-lw9yz]

which is better? this one or Wiim pro plus? with and without power supplies? i have wiim pro plus. Have u tasted lumin?

[@iiWiReviews]

Wiim pro plus is better to my ears, especially with good power supply. Never tried Lumin.

[@Dato-lw9yz]

@@iiWiReviews so its not worth upgrading from it? lets say to eversolo? which is the best u know? i bought ifi ipower2. Allo shanti i could not find for sale. Btw i bought musician pegasus thanks to your reviews!!! And i mostly stream from mac mini to pegasus directly as i have many flac/dsd.

[@Dato-lw9yz]

@@iiWiReviews Thanks. Is eversolo noticable improvement from Wiim pro plus in terms of SQ? + i have not found allo shanti anywhere. Only ifi ipower2 i have. I dont have roon so I stream my files directly from Mac mini to Musician pegasus (just bought thanks to your advice!!!). Wiim doesnt stream dsd (it converts) so I dont know if i have to use wiim for local files.

[@Dato-lw9yz]

@@iiWiReviews sorry for asking..what do u think would be good for me?

[@johncallaghan3097]

Well, Srbojub, I don't stream, but one thing you said caught my attention. First please note I get all my music as FLACs from my computer, which is great because I can use A PC app (AIMP) to select and organise tracks stored on HD and feed them via USB into my DAC. Through choice, I don't possess a mobile 'phone. Now -- the key point for me was that you said the Zen Stream gives better sound than does a computer. So could I continue to use my computer for track storage, go from there into the Zen streamer via its input USB, then through its output USB into the DAC? Would that make the sound better do you think? I hope you'll forgive me my naivete in this matter. Like I said, I don't stream, and am mainly interested in the possibility of using the Zen stream to improve the quality of replay of my FLACs.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

7:19 he says that this will improve the sound (coming from a pc) a lot. EDIT// like you I'm not interested in the streamer aspect -- it's very difficult though to find info about anything else (*everybody* seems to stream).

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

So, I think this will do what you want, but wonder if there would be better options (cheaper even?)

[@steven2809]

The only input on the Zen Stream is from the network, ethernet or WiFI. There is no DAC in it. The two USB connections are 1. Output to a DAC or 2. Connected to a HDD with music files on it. You cannot connect to a PC and play music over USB. You can however stream to it if you have a music server on your PC or use streaming services like Tidal, Spotify etc...

[@johncallaghan3097]

​@@sdrtcacgnrjrc Well, my DAC has XMOS circuitry and USB input, and maybe that's supposed to help? Before, I used to use a Douk audio XU208 XMOS device -- somewhere around £50 if you shop around -- between my PC and DAC. The connections I used from the XU208 to the DAC could be either optical or digital.

[@johncallaghan3097]

@@steven2809 Interesting. So can youi tell me how you connect an HDD drive? Where do you even get one for pure music storage independently of a PC? Sorry, I'm pretty ignorant in this area. BTW, I know the Zen streamer has no DAC -- but I have a separate DAC of my own.

[@sheerkhanful]

I’ve found the Stream’s sound to be transformed by power supply upgrades. Currently I’m using an Uptone Audio JS-2. Tried three others before.

[@lanx0003]

So you basically triple the price. How does it sound compared to computer?

[@sheerkhanful]

@@lanx0003 not necessarily. The Uptone has two rails and thus can in my case drive the STREAM and a DAC. Don’t know how it compares to a computer.

[@danielnicolaiciuc8288]

Thanks! You Must try with good linear power Supply,You will be Shocked.

[@ChicagoRob2]

I agree regarding the sonics, but I had all kinds of problems trying to get mine connected to WiFi. If you do an internet search, you’ll find that this is a common issue. I probably spent 45 minutes, before I had a good connection. Everything was great, once it was connected. However, when I turned it on again, I ended up having to start the process all over again. That was enough for me, so I sent it back for a refund. I even had my IT buddy come over to help out. I have solid gigabit internet and no problems were found. He was at a loss as to why The Zen wouldn’t connect.

[@steven2809]

Read the instructions next time...I had no problems with mine.

[@reptidan]

I got a wifi amplifier with a ethernet out

[@ChicagoRob2]

@@steven2809 The place where I bought it determined it was a duff unit. Next time, don’t be so quick with your assumptions.

[@steven2809]

@@reptidan Sorry that doesn't make any sense.....😕

[@ChicagoRob2]

@@steven2809 It definitely doesn’t make sense. I followed the instructions to the letter. It would initially show it was connected, and several seconds later it would disconnect on its own. It was really frustrating, because I really liked the way the Zen sounded.

[@aleksanderp.4373]

How do you power your pi2aes Srboljub? I have one as well, deciding on PS for it.

[@iiWiReviews]

I power it with Allo Shanti using 5V hack that you can find on Goldensound website.

[@MrZedelijk]

Hi there! How does it stack up against SMSL SD 9 in terms of sound quality? Thank you.

[@iiWiReviews]

Zen Stream is slightly cleaner sounding, with better layering and deeper soundstage. It is noticeable if system is transparent but it is not a night and day difference.

[@johntan7405]

Some users have experienced problems with wifi. Including myself. Did you try wifi at all?

[@iiWiReviews]

No I haven't, my home WiFi is a bit finicky itself so I didn't think there would be any use.

[@mat.b.]

why would 'exclusive mode' sound better than AOI? It's the same thing just with the modes you dont use disabled, which you can do manually in the admin for AIO

[@roddersh5396]

I have the ifi zenstream into SMSL M500, Rega Brio, Dali Menuets SE. Previously I used a Samsung tablet as a source... Zenstream was a significant improvement in sound quality. I compared extensively with streaming from mobile devices, phones. Music is more solid and substantial through the zenstream. The margin of difference is akin to the difference between using ripped CD files on a hard drive vs streaming. But if you're just listening from physical sources like CD or ripped files rather than streaming, the upgrade is less significant. Definitely recommended upgrade for streaming users.

[@benthaavaas4230]

Hi - I had the Rega Brio to my Dali SE good amp but to weak bought an Marantz 40n and Halleluija what a different especially when playing loud I use the Wiim Mini streamer good for price but order just an Primare NP5 MKII to my Topping E50. I wounder should I go for IFI Streamer instead ?

[@roddersh5396]

@@benthaavaas4230 thanks for feedback on the amplification. I'm looking to change from Brio to Denon PMA1600NE or elex r. Regarding Primare or Zenstream streaming, I haven't compared but Primare should be better? But honestly Zenstream is very very good for the money... But there are drops in the app so not super stable... But I think good enough

[@benthaavaas4230]

@@roddersh5396 Hi I think that is a good choice for the price but Denon also have the new 1700NE there is also Cambridge Audio (Cambridge Audio CXA81) which is good and Rotel (Rotel RA-1572 MKII) for interval 1500 - 2000 USD. Regards Bent

[@rosswarren436]

Earlier reviewers from about 8 months ago noted that it was plagued by bad Wi-Fi connection issues. Has that been improved since then? Did you note any issues with it dropping off or not connecting to Wi-Fi? Thanks.

[@iiWiReviews]

I haven't used WiFi because my home WiFi is finicky itself so it wouldn't be much of a test. I don't think much changed... Several owners are still complaining about it in the comments.

[@rosswarren436]

@@iiWiReviews thank you! Seems I recall you saying that now in your review. Hopefully iFi will resolve that issue with a firmware update (if possible) or fix it in a follow on "MK 2" Zen Stream. I would hope so.

[@johnkom2339]

Most very positive reviews I've seen, the reviewer connects with ethernet. That may be a good option but for many inc. myself it's not an option since my listening room is 35 feet away from modem and I'm not going to a run a cable that far... so I've used Wifi but as you say, have had real connectivity issues.

[@rosswarren436]

@@johnkom2339 yes, a 35 foot eithernet cable would not be easy to hide unless you could route it over top the ceiling or under the floor. Everyone seems to be hoping iFi will soon come out with a version 2 or 3 that will have better wireless connectivity. Pity because otherwise everyone says it sound really, really good. I'm buying their iFi Zen Phono soon.

[@davidzwicker9988]

@@rosswarren436 I did finally run ethernet cable to keep the unit consistently connected. Very pleased with performance through my Aragon R2R dac via SPIDF. Also pleased with the Zen Phono vs previous NAD phono stage.

[@johan5660]

Thank you for the great review. How much I wish if you could review the Silent Angel's Munich M1T streamer as well, and give your final conclusion on iFi zen streamer, Pi2 Mercury streamer & Munich M1T. Finally, if possible, how will these streamers sound when connected to your highly praised Musician Pegasus DAC.😊

[@18yearsoldnot]

Hi! Thank you for the review. You mentioned allo digi one signature is a “step up” from digi one… And you didn’t mention how zen stream would compare with the signature…. 😃

[@iiWiReviews]

They are on the same sonic level roughly. Better choose according to other features.

[@avaleks]

Hello my friend. I am your true fan and I watch all your videos. Reviews of new products from Sabaj often appear on the Internet. I would like to suggest that you also take their DAC Sabaj A20D (ver. 2022) and 2 of their Sabaj A20a (ver. 2022) amplifiers for testing. Amplifiers need exactly 2 to connect each of them in mono mode. It will be very interesting to hear your opinion about these products and I think a lot of your fans are waiting for you to do it. Thanks in advance. I wish you health and good luck with your channel.

[@wyup]

SMSL has just released M500mkiii dac, successor to a Srbojub's favourite. It has 6 more OPA1612A and a better clock. Hope they send it to him soon. 😉 Note: Sabaj A20d has same components as M500mkii in a different enclosure, they even measure almost the same on ASR.

[@AYKUBIK]

Good Review. Thanx!

[@michaelkaiser5994]

I am using a Wiim Mini with a Geshelli j2.. I know the price difference but I just thought I’d ask if it is a worthwhile upgrade. Using Amazon HD.

[@seanb3303]

Does a digital source (digital out) have a larger sound signature than a DAC?

[@iiWiReviews]

No it doesn't, DAC is more important in my opinion. But once you get into, let's say 500+ USD DACs...Upgrading your sound by buying a new DAC is exponentially more difficult and you are already in the territory where digital source might be bottlenecking what you're hearing. For example, with Topping D90LE, Musician Pegasus, or Ladder Schumann... Difference between Zen Stream and PC, or let's say Allo DigiOne are as obvious as changing a DAC... But if you're using something like Topping E30, E50, etc. That difference is much less pronounced and upgrading the DAC itself might still be a smarter choice. So my advice would be - DAC first, but sort out the source before spending much more on a new DAC.

[@iiWiReviews]

No it doesn't, DAC is more important in my opinion. But once you get into, let's say 500+ USD DACs...Upgrading your sound by buying a new DAC is exponentially more difficult and you are already in the territory where digital source might be bottlenecking what you're hearing. For example, with Topping D90LE, Musician Pegasus, or Ladder Schumann... Difference between Zen Stream and PC, or let's say Allo DigiOne are as obvious as changing a DAC... But if you're using something like Topping E30, E50, etc. That difference is much less pronounced and upgrading the DAC itself might still be a smarter choice. So my advice would be - DAC first, but sort out the source before spending much more on a new DAC.

[@mw12387]

Pozdrav, može pitanje..ima li razlike u kvaliteti zvuka izmedju USB ili Coax output za Zen stream? Hvala

[@iiWiReviews]

Pozdrav. Ima ali šta će bolje da zvuči zavisi od DACa takođe jer ta dve veze imaju drugačiji način komunikacije. Coax veza uz podatke šalje i klok koji ih raspoređuje (sinhrona veza). USB šalje samo podatke a klok obezbeđuje DAC (asinhrona veza). Pa poređenje ta dva postaje pitanje koji uređaj ima precizniji klok sa manje šuma - strimer ili DAC. Treba probati oba pa čuti. Grubo gledano, što je DAC jeftiniji veće su šanse da Coax zvuči bolje jer mu strimer sve daje na tanjiru. Što je DAC skuplji to će USB više da izjednači. Kod najboljih DACova će se na kraju okrenuti na to da je USB veza bolja.

[@mw12387]

@@iiWiReviews Hvala na super odgovoru, inace imam Dac Marantz hd dac1...nista....hocu isprobat, pa cu da vidim...hvala jos jednom i Lp

[@fadetoblack.-]

I was hoping that you knew what streamer to get that is a streamer only and no deck like this one, but has the I2s output

[@TorToroPorco]

This is definitely one of the biggest audiophile bargains around and was even more so when first released as it originally came with the iFi iPower low noise block transformer. iFi benefits from the ownership of its parent company AMR which manufactures high end audio components and its technology plus engineering expertise filters down to iFi. Optimizing the performance load on a PC can benefit the digital output by eliminating unnecessary tasks and services. I use Foobar2000 and I find that increasing its priority via Windows task manager can improve the sound as well.

[@pablodepeche]

Allow me please to ask you with what cable did you compare ifi vs Pi2aes. And how would you compare the ifi against SMSL sd9 please!! Thank you!!

[@iiWiReviews]

I used a good SPDIF cable because that's the only type of output these two share. But basically only output that can outperform it slightly is I2S on Pi2AES. So if you can utilise it then Pi2AES might be a better choice (but it seems Pi2AES is not sold anymore). Unfortunately, I2S pinout is not standardised and every streamer won't work with every DAC. I find that aspect very annoying. Regarding SD-9, Zen Stream is slightly more revealing, with better layering and a bit more air, when SPDIFs are compared. I couldn't test I2S in this case.

[@saltwater007]

What DLNA Apps did you used? ios or android? Thanks

[@iiWiReviews]

Android, it is called Bubble UPnP.

[@saltwater007]

@@iiWiReviews Thanks

[@VinodKumar-gx7wj]

Does it play any internet radio such as vTuner or similar ones?

[@pef1960]

I'm a big ifi fan and have a couple of their devices. Trouble is I use Qobuz for streaming and am not at all sure how I'd use it with this.

[@IronHorsey3]

Audirvāna Studio

[@dre7767]

Im from the future and would like to know the comparison between the ifi zen stream vs wiim pro ?

[@InnerMoonlights]

Do you have any good Bass Boost recommendation amp/dac for DT 770 pro 80ohm ? I really need help with this. Any advise is appreciated ! I tried to use software like EQ to boost but they all sound very bland and fake bass boost. I did some research on iFi ZEN DAC V2 and TOPPING DX3 Pro+ but are this two good at bass boost ? im a heavy bass head and looking to get a good dac/amp within 150dollars. Any heavy bass head out there using dt770pro 80ohm??? What is your recommendation for the dac/amp Thanks!

[@michaelwright1602]

Try this network switch, if really cleans things up, and really boosts the bass. NETGEAR 8-Port Gigabit Ethernet Plus Switch (GS108Ev3) I paid $42 on Amazon for mine. This is the same switch they use in those $500 "audiophile" switches.

[@jimmyonbekend1462]

Hi, i have a newbie question, can you use this device being connected on a marantz avr? The avr is connected to a 5.1 kef system.. if so how should it be connected to the avr, functioning as dac/streamer. or is the zen purely ment for desktop use?

[@iiWiReviews]

Zen Streamer is purely a stereo device that cannot pass 5.1 signal. So it is only possible to use with 2 channel systems.

[@mw12387]

Pozdrav, zanima me, dali ima zen stream tonske kontrole (bas, treble) Hvala na odgpvoru i lp

[@iiWiReviews]

Pozdrav, nema toga.

[@michaelwright1602]

Have they got the bugs worked out of this unit? I had one, sent it back, buggy as hell and a PIA to setup. I have the mercury V2 now running RoPieeeXL, much better unit all the way around.

[@anthony2010707]

I think all in one mode is number 1, mode 5 is DNLA, UPnP.

[@GentielioGaming]

I was an early adopter of this streamer but i guess i got a faulty unit. The thing just would not connect, not even wired. I managed to go to the menu and when i selected my usb stick with lots of music on only a fraction of the music was shown. Did you or anyone had the same issue when trying to play music from usb stick or hdd?

[@spuddyl9938]

I'm conflicted by you stating that the Zen Stream sounds better than for instance the Bluesound Node 2i. But the Zen Stream has no built in dac. So if you hooked the Zen Stream to let's say a SMSL M500 MKii or a Denafrips Ares 2 and compaired that to theBluesound's built in dac then surely the Zen Stream would sound better. Unless of course you bypassed the Bluesound Node 2i's internal dac and used the same seperate dac on both streamers. I wonder then which dac you used for the testing?

[@iiWiReviews]

When I said that I was thinking only about digital outputs of Node 2i compared to the digital outputs on Zen Stream.... Because I know several people using only Node's digital outputs.

[@spuddyl9938]

@@iiWiReviews Ah oke, I must have missed that. Have you tried the Bluesound node N130 yet? I has a better dac than it's predecessor.

[@iiWiReviews]

I haven't had a chance to try that one.

[@teachonlywhatiseasy]

Digital signal can be cleaned?