Buzz
iFi has recently unveiled a product from its Zen Series named Zen Stream, a Wifi Transport (digital to digital). Zen Stream can be easily configured by directly plugging into a DAC and acts as a bridge device between WiFi network communication and audio systems. iFi also categorizes Zen Stream into the 'Wi-fi audio transport' product line dedicated to wireless audio systems.
To use Zen Stream, you simply need to plug it in as a bridge between the router (Ethernet, WiFi) and DAC or amplifier (via USB/SPDIF port). iFi states that Zen Stream will work most effectively with Zen DAC and Zen Amplifier product lines supporting hi-res audio, while also being compatible with hi-res audio-supported music streaming services such as Spotify or Tidal.
Zen Stream's hardware features a quad-core ARM Cortex SoC compatible with WiFi bands 802.11a/b/g/n/ac at 2.4GHz and 5GHz, supporting audio signal processing up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256. Users can stream music directly from Tidal (via Tidal Connect) and Spotify (via Spotify Connect), or through Roon, DLNA, or NAA. Zen Stream also supports AirPlay for Apple devices, with ChromeCast coming in upcoming updates.
Zen Stream offers 5 operating modes:- All-in-One for standard use cases
- DLNA to support DLNA-compatible apps and devices
- NAA to function as a Network Audio Adapter when used with HQPlayer software
- Roon Bridge for optimal compatibility with Roon
- Tidal Mode tailored for Tidal Master users
Zen Stream features 2 control buttons, including a power button and a quick WiFi network connection button. On the back of the device are various ports, including a Gigabit Ethernet port, USB-A input port, USB-C data port, 2 USB-async outputs, coaxial S/PDIF port, power input port, and WiFi signal antenna. The product still utilizes iFi's exclusive GMT Femto-precision clock technology to minimize digital signal interference to the lowest level.iFi Zen Stream will be priced at £399.Source: ifi-audio
