I have had the DSD with Bridge 2 for awhile now and it has always impressed me, especially with the upgradability due to free DAC software updates. I use a SilenZio server running Roon in another room, serving my music from NAS. The Bridge 2 acts as the Roon endpoint and streamer to the DAC.

My question is if anyone has compared other streamers to the Bridge 2 and found worthwhile improvements in sound quality? I have been looking at products from Sonore (ultrarendu + LPS 1.2 or Signature Rendu SE), Bryston (BDP-3) and a few others.

Try JRiver on the SilenZio and sending music to the Bridge 2

I was thinking more along the lines of hardware, not software. Something to receive the signal from Roon over the network, and then pass that along to the DAC via usb (or other method).

With that said, I have compared JRiver to Roon. There seemed to be a small difference in sound presentation, but not sure one was "better" than another. I do like the interface on Roon more, mostly due to the Tidal integration, so even if JRiver sounded slightly better, I'd likely stick with Roon.

I’ve found noticeable improvements with JRiver and even better file format support. But like you, I’m still using Roon.

If you are looking at hardware changes, my friend is using fiber optic network cables connecting his PC and NAS and the streamer. And using linear power supplies to the NAS and switches.

He’s also a big fan of Lumin.

If you want to go fibre optic, try Lifatec glass cables. [emoji106] for linear power supplies.

I have been looking at the Auralic Aries G2. This seems like an interesting piece. Wonder how it would compare to the Sonore Sig Rendu SE or Bryston BDP-3???

https://us.auralic.com/products/aries-g2

Kevin: the LUMIN products are worth checking out. Most of their models have a built-in dac and act as Roon endpoints. I began with a LUMIN D1 and since moved up to their A1 model.

Gary, thanks. I have looked at the Lumin products as well. Their top products look outstanding and have gotten very good reviews.

I am considering a stand-alone streamer so that I could use any DAC I wanted. The Lumin products and the PS Audio DS with Bridge lock me into their DAC's. Likely not such a bad thing as they are great products, but I would love the flexibility afforded by a stand-alone streamer.

The LUMIN U1 is the one without a dac. You might want to check it out.

Will do.