Why Hi-Fi Audio Sreamers? 

Yes, at TRC, we've specialized in records and analog audio over the years, but we do appreciate hi-res audio streaming too. A dedicated music streamer can truly become the heart of your hi-fi setup, whether you're streaming from Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, or playing music stored on a local drive. Streaming hasn't replaced our love for physical media; if anything, it's renewed our appreciation for vinyl and CDs. The convenience of wirelessly sending music from your device to your speakers is undeniable, but it hasn't dampened our desire to hold and cherish physical album art.

Streamers integrate with your home network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, which ensures enhanced sound quality compared to a Bluetooth connection. A quality music streamer is indispensable for music lovers seeking the best possible sound fidelity. From budget-friendly models to high-end options with cutting-edge streaming technologies, the market offers something for everyone. We're here to help you pick the right streamer for you.

In A Rush?

WiiM Pro Plus

Best Value For Money Streamer

WiiM Mini

Best Budget Streamer

Yamaha WXC-50

Best Value for Money Streamer + Pre-amplifier

Marantz SACD 30n

Best Streamer + CD Player

Eversolo DMP A8

Best Premium Streamer

Cambridge Audio MXN10

Best Mid-Range Streamer

Cambridge Audio EVO 150

Best Streaming Amplifier

Understanding Audio Formats:

• WAV: An uncompressed audio format that is well-known for its high sound quality. It retains all audio data and is largely compatible with a wide range of audio players and devices. WAV files, on the other hand, are larger in size, which can be an issue when streaming over the internet.
• AIFF:  Another uncompressed audio codec that preserves good audio quality. It is favored by Mac users and is supported by a variety of HiFi streamers and audio equipment.
• FLAC: A well-known and commonly used lossless audio format. It provides high-quality audio without data loss or sound degradation. FLAC files are often bigger in size than lossy formats like MP3, but they retain all of the original audio data from the source.
• ALAC: A lossless audio format created by Apple. It's similar to FLAC in that it keeps all of the original audio data, but it's mostly used within Apple devices.
• WMA: WMA stands for Windows Media Audio, which is both an audio file container and an audio codec. This format is native to Windows Media Player, the popular multimedia player built into Windows operating systems.
• MP3: A popular and heavily compressed audio format. While lossy compression has made it less common in HiFi streaming, many older devices and platforms still support it.
• OGG: An OGG file is similar to the MP3 file format. It contains audio data that has been saved in the Ogg container format and compressed using Vorbis audio compression. OGG files include Song metadata, artist info , and track data.
• AAC: A lossy audio format related with Apple products and iTunes. While it does not provide the same degree of audio quality as lossless formats such as FLAC or ALAC, it does deliver high sound quality at reduced file sizes, making it suitable for streaming and storing on portable devices.

Types of Audio Streamers:

Dedicated Hi-Fi Streamers

Dedicated HiFi streamers are standalone devices specifically designed for high-fidelity music playback. High-end DACs, improved analog outputs, and specialized power supplies are used to reduce noise and interference. Dedicated HiFi streamers can come with a display for controlling playback and can be connected to your audio system via analog or digital outputs. Wireless connectivity is also supported in certain models, allowing streaming from mobile devices or desktops.

If you're a music lover who wants to get the most out of your sound, a dedicated Hi-Fi Streamer like the ones from WiiM & Eversolo are ideal.

Streaming Amplifiers

Streaming amplifiers combine the functionality of a traditional amplifier with built-in streaming. Streaming amplifiers, such as the Cambridge Audio EVO line are ideal for those seeking a compact and integrated solution in their home audio setup.

Multi-room Audio Streamers

Multi-room audio streamers allow you to create a synchronized audio experience throughout different rooms in your house. Users can control the playback of many audio sources, such as local music libraries, online streaming services, or radio stations, and have them all play at the same time around the house. These have user-friendly apps or interfaces that allow you to conveniently manage playback zones, volume settings, and music choices. For extra convenience, some models have voice control.

Multi-room audio streamers like the ones from Denon & Sonos are ideal for those who want a consistent and immersive music experience throughout their home.

Features To Look Out For In Streamers

Connectivity Options

A wired Ethernet connection can provide a more robust and reliable network connection, reducing the chance of audio dropouts or interruptions. Look for a streamer that supports dual-band Wi-Fi, as this allows for greater connectivity and reduces potential interference. Check for Bluetooth support if you wish to stream music from your mobile device. For higher-quality wireless audio transmission, make sure it supports aptX HD or LDAC.

Supported Audio Formats:

Check to see if the streamer supports popular Hi-Res audio formats such as FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, and DSD. Also, check if it supports common audio codecs such as AAC, MP3, OGG, and WMA, as these formats are used by online music platforms for streaming.

Audio Quality & Resolution:

Higher bit depths and sample rates result in more precise and detailed sound reproduction, particularly for Hi-Res audio tracks. Make sure the streamer supports lossless audio formats such as FLAC, ALAC, WAV, or DSD, which preserve the original audio quality without compression.

Multiroom:

If you want to create a multi-room audio setup, make sure the streamer supports it. Depending on your tastes, look for compatibility with multi-room audio systems such as Sonos, Yamaha MusicCast, or Google Chromecast.

Integrated DAC:

Some HiFi music streamers include high-quality DACs built in, while others may require an external DAC to convert digital audio to analog signals for playback. If you already own a high-quality external DAC, ensure that the streamer has the required digital outputs (e.g., USB, coaxial, or optical) to connect to it.

FAQs

Explore Our Hi-Fi Guides

Explore The Revolver Club