Surprisingly Good Sound Quality and Value
This streaming device delivers unexpectedly strong sound quality, even in a high-end main system. It works well as a streamer and preamp, and the built-in amplifier is good, though it lacks the bass drive of separate mono blocks. Sound improves further when routed through a valve preamp. Setup and use are enjoyable, and the device offers excellent value for the money. Recommended for bedroom AV systems and as a core component in a main listening setup.
Pros
- + surprisingly good sound quality
- + works well as streamer and preamp
- + enjoyable to use
- + fantastic value for money
Cons
- − amplifier not quite up to bass drive of mono blocks
AI-assisted summary of a verified Amazon customer review.
· April 7, 2021 · United States
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Unreliable Software Updates Cause Frustration
The device is described as beautiful and proud, but it may not start when needed and seems to have a mind of its own. Software updates are frequent and often render the unit dead, sometimes completely and sometimes only partially functional. Online forums are full of complaints and advice such as holding down buttons, turning it off, or hoping for the best. After owning two of these devices, the experience has led to a decision never to buy again.
Cons
- − unreliable startup
- − frequent software updates that can render the unit dead
- − partial or complete loss of functionality
- − requires troubleshooting like holding buttons or turning off
AI-assisted summary of a verified Amazon customer review.
· April 1, 2024 · United States
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Defective Unit, Remote Would Not Pair
A premium streaming device priced over $3,000 arrived defective. Setup instructions required holding the remote next to the screen and pressing the home button for 3-4 seconds to pair it, but this failed repeatedly over 30-45 minutes. The power button on the unit also would not turn it off. Unplugging and restarting did not help, and customer service troubleshooting also failed. The unit was returned for a refund, resulting in wasted time and disappointment. The product sounds promising, but this experience was poor.
Cons
- − Remote would not pair during setup
- − Power button did not turn off the unit
- − Defective unit arrived
- − Setup failed after repeated attempts and troubleshooting
- − Required return and refund process
AI-assisted summary of a verified Amazon customer review.
· October 8, 2020 · United States
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Clear sound but lacks power for rock
This all-in-one streaming device was recommended by an audio YouTuber and used to upgrade a bedroom system previously built around a Sonos Amp with Klipsch RP-600M speakers and a sub. It offers clearer sound and slightly better imaging, but lacks real power in the midrange for rock music. Quiet listening, such as Norah Jones at low levels, sounds lovely, while anything as demanding as Fleetwood Mac falls flat. The remote never worked and the app is poor, especially considering the price. It fell short of expectations.
Pros
- + clearer sound
- + slightly better imaging
- + good for quiet listening
Cons
- − lacks midrange power for rock
- − remote never worked
- − app is poor
- − poor value for price
AI-assisted summary of a verified Amazon customer review.
· June 25, 2021 · United States
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Excellent Sound and Build, Minor Control Quirks
This streaming DAC and integrated amp delivers balanced, warm sound that encourages repeated listening. AirPlay and Chromecast integration work seamlessly, with consistent volume control from the source device. Build quality is exceptional, featuring a heavy chassis, an intuitive top-mounted volume dial with lights, and a well-made metal remote. The app is easy to configure. Drawbacks include non-touch screen, inconsistent physical buttons, and no phono input. The 40W rating is conservative and drives speakers well, though it cannot power demanding models. It works effectively as a preamp with a separate amplifier.
Pros
- + balanced, warm sound
- + seamless AirPlay and Chromecast integration
- + consistent volume control from source
- + exceptional build quality
- + intuitive volume dial
- + easy-to-use app
- + conservative power rating
Cons
- − no phono input
- − non-touch screen
- − inconsistent physical buttons
AI-assisted summary of a verified Amazon customer review.
· November 7, 2021 · United States
Read original on Amazon ↗
