tip for a good Streamer/Renderer

[DavidHB]

It may be worth pointing out that Linn streamers use the OpenHome protocol (and therefore Bubble DS), while most other streaming devices use UPnP AV (and therefore Bubble UPnP). OpenHome is a derivative of UPnP AV, and MinimServer supports both, but the differences at the Control Point end of things are greater, which (I guess) is why there are two versions of Bubble.

You can use Bubble UPnP Server (which is not actually a media server in itself but middleware) to provide OpenHome compatibility to UPnP AV streamers, but that is another layer of complexity, which some people feel is a problem, while others use it successfully. Another point to consider, especially as you stream in Hi-res, is the availability of Ethernet at your chosen location for the second system. WiFi and HomePlug have improved considerably since I started out in the streaming game, but Ethernet remains by far the easiest and most reliable connection to use between the server and the renderer.

Any recommendations of streamers will depend on a range of factors - your budget, how close you want to get to the quality of your Akurate, and your use case (e.g. will you be listening to the new streamer on speakers, headphones or both). The easiest (and likely most costly) option is to stick with Linn for the second system. But it sounds as though you think even a second hand Sneaky would be too expensive. Only you can decide on the relative sensitivities of your ears and your wallet.

I did listen to a number of more affordable options when looking for a second system to complement my main (Exakt) setup. In the end, I bit the bullet and bought a Majik DSM 4, which I intend to keep for as long as it and I continue to function.

David