n-stream prerequistes and future

Posted by: balma01 on 23 April 2012

After 2 (happy) years with my naim uniti, streaming from asset upnp server, it's time to use n-stream. I do not have any ipad or ipod and I will use this type of hardware just for upnp control point so, to save money,  I think to buy an used ipad or ipod touch just for this purpose. The question is wich is the 'minimum' version of ipad/ipod I have to buy to have a VERY GOOD n-stream experience ? Does anybody as an idea about the future of n-stream, maybe a new version for windows (8?) so maybe is better to wait some months before buyng the device ?

Posted on: 23 April 2012 by Pev

I have a 1st gen iPod and it's crap with Nstream - slow and the battery life is pitiful - don't bother. IPad may be better I guess, but what a price for a remote control - hopefully an Android version is on the way.

Posted on: 23 April 2012 by Steve w

iPad 2 16gb here..Nstream works v.well...also works on iPhone and iPod (although displays are a little small)...try Apple for re-furbed iPads.

Posted on: 23 April 2012 by balma01

an ipad1 works well with n-stream ?

Posted on: 23 April 2012 by rjstaines

N-Stream works well on i-pad. N-stream doesn't work on Windows, so Windows 8 doesn't come into it.

 

N-Stream has many critics and is lacking a few things that people would like to have, but as Phil said this weekend, the application is under continuing development. I think that means 'expect a new version in the not too distant future'. Hopefully to co-incide with shipments of NDS ???

 

So far as Windows is concerned, I think the HDX browser based control application is first rate for ease of use and performance and facilities and have said before that I think Naim missed a trick by not developing a browser based control facility for streamers. (there are those who would say 'after all if Linn can do it'... but I'm not one of those).

 

And if you're thinking an i-pad is an expensive remote control device, don't forget, you can get the BBC news on it too!  

Posted on: 23 April 2012 by Slioch
Originally Posted by balma01:

an ipad1 works well with n-stream ?

Yes.  Works fine - and much more responsive after the s/w upgrades a few months ago, at least on an NDX. [I guess there was some optimisation of interface between NDX and the app].

 

I would have said that it isn't much faster on an ipad "3", in my experience. Maybe if you have lots large album art that doesn't get down sized by the server.

Posted on: 23 April 2012 by trickydickie

If going for an iPod touch I would recommend 3rd generation or later.

 

These models all support ios 5 which is the latest.  This will future proof your purchase just in case later versions of nStream require the later version of the operating system.  Currently nStream works with all models but I'm finding with my 1st generation Touch that I am becoming restricted with software as it is stuck at version 3.

 

If I were you I would look at the iPad, you will find it far more useful, it's one of those devices that you don't know what you will use it for until you get one.

 

Alternatively, there is supposed to be a smaller iPad in the making, this could be an ideal size for a remote and could be worth waiing for.

 

Richard