Streaming System Suggestions Please

Posted by: GaryTheBass on 12 June 2018

Hi, Newbie here, so be kind!

Due to downsizing, I’m looking to get an all-in-one streaming system.

Current system is Audiolab 8200CDQ, 8200MB power amps into PMC DB1i speakers.

For streaming I am using a Squeezebox touch and the majority of listening is via Tidal.

My budget would extend to, say, a Naim Uniti Atom, but I am fine with looking at the used market, so something like Uniti 2, Superuniti or Linn Majik DSM.

I'm happy to keep the speakers providing they are a good match for the front end, but nothing is set in stone.


My listening area is a lounge/diner, so not ideal, but it’s what I have to work with!

Dimensions are 23’ x 13’, and speaker placement isn’t so good – across the room and a little too much into a corner (the reason why I shortlisted the Majik DSM after reading about SPACE Optimisation).

I don’t need massive volume, but something that will perform well at modest levels.

Any thoughts you have on the above options, or other suggestions, would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance.

Posted on: 12 June 2018 by JedT

I own a Superuniti and a Unitiqute (second system). In the past I used a Majik DS into NAC102/HICAP/NAP180 (had has CD3.5/HICAP as main source before that).

I found the Majik a bit too polite compared to the CD3.5. I tried the UQ into NAP180 and preferred that.  

Simplifying everything with the Superuniti brought a nice improvement over both the Majik and the UQ/180 and let me shed a few boxes. If you can live with the fact that a SU doesn't have the latest streaming engine then I think they are a bargain at about £2k second hand. You are getting an excellent streamer, DAC and integrated amp for the price. 

I doubt I'll ever sell mine. If I upgraded to something like NAC N272/XPS2 (or a future replacement) then I'd likely keep the SU for a second system rather than let it go at £2k. 

 

 

Posted on: 12 June 2018 by SimonPeterArnold

The Atom performs well at all levels I find. Choosing the Atom would give you a lot of more flexibility than any other all in one in your list. It covers most bases and with Chromecast and Roon gives you more options outside of upnp and airplay. I love mine.

Posted on: 12 June 2018 by David Hendon

It's really whether you want a new entry level unit (Atom) with all the new streaming options or second hand top of the range (e.g. SuperUniti) which will likely perform better in an objective sound quality sense but isn't Roon ready and won't have Airplay 2. Only you can answer this.

best

David