Any Melco streamer fans here? Looking for your input.

**joeinid** · October 24, 2016, 12:28 PM

I was recommended the MELCO N1ZH. Any users here?

http://soundorg.com/melco/

http://www.melco-audio.com/products/

**Mike** · October 24, 2016, 12:43 PM

YES! I'm bringing in the N1ZH.

**CPP** · October 24, 2016, 01:11 PM

YES! I'm bringing in the N1ZH.

cool

**Everest Audio** · October 24, 2016, 01:19 PM

I started carrying Melco a little while ago and have been very impressed. I've been using the N1A which is superb value in the Melco lineup. I've been connecting it to the T+A DAC8 DSD via usb. They're easy to use, are definitely better built than the impression you get from the pictures and are dead quiet in operation.

Sent from my SM-G925W8 using Tapatalk

**RedSectorA** · October 24, 2016, 09:01 PM

I've had a N1A for over 6 months now, using it with my USB DAC on my main system as well as a server for other streamers in the house. I installed MinimServer in it instead of Twonky which bring a cleaner interface . Minim works extremely well with BUBBLEUPNP as control point on an Android device, Arcam MusicLife for IOS.

What I love about the N1A is that digital noise is very low, relatively inexpensive, it very easy to use and quite versatile. Ultimately I know it's a computer but it's purpose built.

I'm more into analog but this is the closest sounding I have heard using digital. Considering the amount of digital music available that isnt available in vinyl it was inevitable for me to go that route, and I thoroughly enjoy it.

The DAC I'm using is a Forssell MDAC-2 with a few unlisted options, OPPO BCT 101CI as transport.

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**joeinid** · October 25, 2016, 12:18 AM

Thank you Dan. I love the feedback.

**Jack** · October 25, 2016, 12:23 AM

Joe

Just curious what appeals to you about the Melco as opposed to Lumin?

**joeinid** · October 25, 2016, 12:33 AM

I love my Lumin, but am looking toward the future.

The Melco offers an Ethernet out connection which, I think, is becoming a preferred method of hookup.

Originally Posted by Jack

Joe

Just curious what appeals to you about the Melco as opposed to Lumin?

**Jack** · October 25, 2016, 12:42 AM

Don't you think the Lumin guys will adapt if that happens?

**Milk_vanilla** · October 25, 2016, 12:46 AM

For existing lumin user, Melco can be used as upnp server, similar like L1. But i never have a chance to compare it.

**joeinid** · October 25, 2016, 01:14 AM

Originally Posted by Jack

Don't you think the Lumin guys will adapt if that happens?

Most likely.

**nicoludio** · October 25, 2016, 04:50 AM

When used with the Lumin A1, the Melco N1A (which replaced the Synology NAS) brought a quieter, more relaxed presentation to the sound. The sound stage was bigger and, generally, more airy. I was quite skeptical at first but the proof is in the sound!

Since it has a USB output, it can also be used as a USB server. Compared to the SPDIF output from the Lumin A1, fresh out from the box and using generic USB cables, sound from the USB output is almost as good as the SPDIF output from the Lumin.

The sound from the Lumin is more detailed and defined, tighter in the bass but does not flow as well as the USB output from the N1A. The sound from the USB output mirrors the LAN output - the soundstage was bigger and, generally, more airy. Smoother and less grainy. All relative, of course. When I tried the Ansuz A USB cable with the Melco N1A, the sound was better still with, for example, the texture on snare drums being more discernible, and a more immediate and dynamic sound.

Once MinimServer is installed (in place of the default Twonky), the Lumin and Kinsky apps can be used. Very useful though I have yet to find a way to save playlists.

I would think that the N1ZH (with HDDs) would be the sweet spot of the range, with the better and more solidly built casing of the N1Z series but without the exorbitant cost of the SSDs in the N1ZA. Plus, the N1ZH has dual power supplies (compared to single power supply the N1A), which are supposedly "medical grade". If only they could sub-contract the design and manufacture of the case to Aurender, that would be fantastic! Wishful thinking though...

**Q3Di** · October 26, 2016, 09:37 AM

Originally Posted by Mike

YES! I'm bringing in the N1ZH.

Can't wait to see your review. I 'd like to see the comparison between the Melco N1ZH and the Aurender N100H.

**Mike** · October 26, 2016, 09:42 AM

Originally Posted by Q3Di

Can't wait to see your review. I 'd like to see the comparison between the Melco N1ZH and the Aurender N100H.

For sure. It's going to be about 8 weeks for my Ayre QX5 DAC to arrive and I will order the Melco then. I had a long discussion with Ayre about the new QX5 and it seems that this is one killer piece. All the inputs were optimized for best performance. I'm anxious to compare the USB (Aurender) with ethernet (Melco). It's interesting that the Melco can use any app - including the Lumin app.

It should be notes that the new Ayre QX5 can stream directly from your network - without needing a Melco/Aurender in the middle, but many feel that a Melco/Aurender can improve sonics, ease of use, flexibility, etc. I will be trying it all ways!

**nicoludio** · October 26, 2016, 12:05 PM

Originally Posted by Mike

I'm anxious to compare the USB (Aurender) with ethernet (Melco). It's interesting that the Melco can use any app - including the Lumin app.

It should be notes that the new Ayre QX5 can stream directly from your network - without needing a Melco/Aurender in the middle, but many feel that a Melco/Aurender can improve sonics, ease of use, flexibility, etc. I will be trying it all ways!

The Melco has both USB and ethernet outputs so it would be interesting to see a comparison between the USB outputs of the Melco and the Aurender.

While it is possible to stream directly from a network server, many have reported that placing the Melco (as a "switch" and a NAS) between a DAC and a server/computer makes a significant difference.

**the professor** · October 26, 2016, 12:09 PM

Also if possible, lets add in the Lumin U1 USB output into the shootout.

**Randy Myers** · October 26, 2016, 12:35 PM

Well if you do not have USB output then right there is a huge difference since my understanding is that DSD cannot go out over SPDIF. USB is the best option! I also love the improvements that the W4S Recovery does for the USB signal and the W4S Remedy does for SPDIF (especially when playing Redbook CDs out through Coax).

**Everest Audio** · October 26, 2016, 01:01 PM

Melco puts out such a pristine signal over usb that I wouldn't think a W4S Recovery would add any benefit. However, you never know for sure until you try.

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**Randy Myers** · October 26, 2016, 02:24 PM

Exactly, you never know until you try, however I have heard several people with extremely high end gear be surprised in how much this little inexpensive piece helps...

**Womaz** · October 28, 2016, 02:37 PM

I've had the Melco N1A for just over a year now. I got it as I gave up on the Devialet AIR function.

It sounds great to me and every bit as good as AIR if not better . It's solid and reliable which was my main priority.
My one moan is the lack of the app. It's been imminent for a year now and it's rather frustrating. I use an ipad so I use the Kinsky app and it's rather dated. This sort of spoils the user experience for me.

**the professor** · October 28, 2016, 02:52 PM

I understand that the Lumin app works pretty well with it. So you might try it. I have no experience with the Melco so I'd love to hear your thoughts. I love the Lumin app.

Originally Posted by Womaz

I've had the Melco N1A for just over a year now. I got it as I gave up on the Devialet AIR function.

It sounds great to me and every bit as good as AIR if not better . It's solid and reliable which was my main priority.
My one moan is the lack of the app. It's been imminent for a year now and it's rather frustrating. I use an ipad so I use the Kinsky app and it's rather dated. This sort of spoils the user experience for me.

**RedSectorA** · October 28, 2016, 03:46 PM

Originally Posted by Womaz

I've had the Melco N1A for just over a year now. I got it as I gave up on the Devialet AIR function.

It sounds great to me and every bit as good as AIR if not better . It's solid and reliable which was my main priority.
My one moan is the lack of the app. It's been imminent for a year now and it's rather frustrating. I use an ipad so I use the Kinsky app and it's rather dated. This sort of spoils the user experience for me.

If you're looking for a control point for the N1A try Arcam Music Life, works very well with IOS.

**Womaz** · October 28, 2016, 03:59 PM

Thanks for the suggestions guys, but I have tried both of these apps, but both have issues.which is a shame as they are both superior to Kinsky.
The Arcam app repeatedly loses my Devialet for some reason and the lumin app also has problems, the music keeps dropping out. The only stable app for me is Kinsky

**the professor** · October 28, 2016, 04:13 PM

Thanks for the feedback

**nicoludio** · October 28, 2016, 04:17 PM

Originally Posted by Womaz

Thanks for the suggestions guys, but I have tried both of these apps, but both have issues.which is a shame as they are both superior to Kinsky.
The Arcam app repeatedly loses my Devialet for some reason and the lumin app also has problems, the music keeps dropping out. The only stable app for me is Kinsky

The Lumin app works very well for me. Do you have MinimServer installed?

**Womaz** · October 28, 2016, 05:10 PM

I am not technical I am afraid so would not know how to install this , I would also be scared to mess things up as Kinsky works.
A Melco app would of course be very welcome

**RedSectorA** · October 28, 2016, 05:27 PM

Womaz,

I was just wondering if you had Minim or not. Minim is way, way better than Twonky and not that hard to install if you follow the instructions which are both complete and simple to follow. You do have to ask Simon on Minim's forum for access to the instructions. Well worth it if I may say so myself. Then Arcam's MusicLife would work wonders.

**the professor** · October 28, 2016, 06:08 PM

If Minim is so much better than Twonky why wouldn't Melco already have it installed? Lets face it - we just want to be into music, not to be a computer geek.

**Womaz** · October 28, 2016, 06:58 PM

Originally Posted by the professor

If Minim is so much better than Twonky why wouldn't Melco already have it installed? Lets face it - we just want to be into music, not to be a computer geek.

Yeah I think that's my thoughts too

**RedSectorA** · October 28, 2016, 07:21 PM

Originally Posted by the professor

If Minim is so much better than Twonky why wouldn't Melco already have it installed? Lets face it - we just want to be into music, not to be a computer geek.

Jock,

That question I can't answer and I agree with you we just want to listen to music. Minim should de facto be installed but that's not the case unfortunately. I'm running both side by side and it's no contest in my mind. Oh by the way I'm really not a geek, far from it.

Do you have experience with both Twonky and Minim? Just curious.

**Kuoppis** · October 29, 2016, 03:07 AM

Originally Posted by Randy Myers

Exactly, you never know until you try, however I have heard several people with extremely high end gear be surprised in how much this little inexpensive piece helps...

I do have an Aurender, which has a shielded and grounded USB output (technically superior to the Melco's) and the W4S Recovery still brings an improvement.

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

**Womaz** · October 29, 2016, 03:51 AM

To sum up I think the Melco is very good value. I was worried that it would not be as good with the AIR feature from Devialet. I was also a little cynical as I did not know what it would add. After all it's just a dedicated HD really? However it sounds excellent. I was considering an Aurender at the time too but struggle to audition at home up here in the NE. So I opted for the Melco but I must admit I may now consider moving to an Aurender. If the Melco app arrives soon then this would improve the user experience I would imagine

**Kuoppis** · October 29, 2016, 05:34 AM

Not to pooh pooh the Melco, but the Aurender app works like a charm.

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**Randy Myers** · October 29, 2016, 09:36 AM

I use Roon which I believe has no rivals in applications to control your digital music from your server. Then again I have a heavily modified PC as my music server which I believe rivals most any dedicated music server. I know many of these servers cost multiple times more and for the person who does not care to really learn about computers are a very good alternative. From my understanding most dedicated servers can run Roon. I run Roon headless server on my dedicated PC and run Roon controller on my Surface Pro 3. Yes, with Roon you can also use a PC (Surface, laptop, etc.) as the control unit, not just an Apple or Android product.

**nicoludio** · January 16, 2017, 09:15 PM

For those not already aware, the series 2 has been launched in Japan (where it is marketed under the "Dela" brand). Google translate is your buddy

https://www.dela-audio.com/プロダクト/n1a-music-library/

https://www.dela-audio.com/プロダクト/n1a...2487;ル/

**Arcadia Audio** · July 16, 2017, 09:14 PM

Recently I received a sample N1A/2 and am using the Linn Kazoo app with it.

**Zaheer** · July 30, 2017, 06:42 AM

Hello
I have had the Melco N1A for over a year now
In my system , I have the Cjord Dave DAC + Belles MB200 power amp + Belles LA01 Pre
The sources are
1. AUrender n100 h : USB out
2. Auralic Aries : USB + SPDIF +AES out
3. Computer Audiophile specs build Zuma with Windows 10 + Roon+ JRiver + Music on SSD + Paul Pang USB card (All linear powered)
4. Lumin U1 + Melco N1A : USB / AES out
5. Melco N1A : USB out

If I had to chose the best cost effective solution for the DAC : it would be the Melco n1A .. terrific sound , clear , there's everthing
Lumin app works rather well with the Melco

But the best sound for my ears remains the Lumin + Melco
Lumin + CAPS is not to the level of Melco alone

So yes : the melco N1A is a very very good product , and underated because of the lack of a dedicated app

Cheers

**Everest Audio** · July 30, 2017, 10:36 AM

I've been using the N1A/2 for a while now after having the N1A and it's a fantastic piece. I too have been waiting for a dedicated app, but in the meantime, BubbleUPnP has been working fairly well on the Android side and allows for Cloud playback (ie. Tidal). The developers keep making improvements to the app, so it has been getting better. On the iOS side, some of my customers have been successfully using mconnect which is one of the very few that provide Tidal playback on iOS. I wasn't able to compare the N1A and the N1A/2 side by side, but if my aural memory is correct, the new version definitely brought some improvements.

**XCop5089** · August 15, 2017, 09:34 AM

I've been using an N1A into my dCS Vivaldi 2.0 DAC since 2015.

Connection is via a Tellurium Q Black Diamond USB cable and the noise floor is really low.

I'm looking to try out the N1Z/2 as soon as my dealer gets hold of one. He is really enthusiastic about it in combination with the Vivaldi DAC and says that it is very close to the Vivaldi Transport in a full stack system!

**nonesup** · August 16, 2017, 06:56 AM

I have N1ZH60 / 2 connected directly to my Lumin A1 with AQ Diamond. Great sound and as it is handled from the Lumin app, everything works like a Swiss watch. I also have on the net, a mini fanless PC, SSD, i7, 16 GB, to run the Roon Core, but I prefer the direct sound from Melco. Unfortunately, Melco does not have enough RAM, nor probably a processor, to run the Roon Core. I would have loved that combination.

**Diasoft** · December 19, 2019, 03:00 PM

Bought the new Melco

HA-N1Z/2EX-H60. Sounds great via Audioquest Diamond USB into my Vitus SCD 025 Mk2. Internet Connection via Melco LAN cables with EMO Safe EN 70e. USB Regen Amber with Sbooster does not improve the sound. Any new tweaks I should know off?

Bought the Buffalo Bluray Drive for ripping. Is the USB cable important?

Dirk

**dznutz** · December 21, 2019, 09:36 PM

I have used Lumin, Aurender, Esoteric, Mytek and Bryston... I now have a Melco and it does so many things right. Just wish the App was a little more developed but it does just fine.

**nicoludio** · December 22, 2019, 06:37 AM

Originally Posted by dznutz

I have used Lumin, Aurender, Esoteric, Mytek and Bryston... I now have a Melco and it does so many things right. Just wish the App was a little more developed but it does just fine.

The Melco app is based on the MConnect app, which takes some getting used to.

Depending on whether your DAC has LAN or USB inputs, you can try the following as well:

- Lumin app - USB & LAN (DAC must be OpenHome compatible

- Fidata app - USB & LAN

**Diasoft** · December 22, 2019, 02:25 PM

Since I am a beginner: If I want to rip 10 different masterings of the same album, how can I do that in an easy way? I am using Minimserver and SongKong. The N1Z always overwrites the first copy with the next one when ripping with the buffalo burner.
Thanks,
Dirk

**dznutz** · December 22, 2019, 04:01 PM

Originally Posted by Diasoft

Since I am a beginner: If I want to rip 10 different masterings of the same album, how can I do that in an easy way? I am using Minimserver and SongKong. The N1Z always overwrites the first copy with the next one when ripping with the buffalo burner.
Thanks,
Dirk

Thats a question that should be directed at your Dealer, distributor or directly to the Manufacturer.

I can try. I would assume this is happening because the CDs you are trying to burn have the exact same song titles/names. Where did you find CDs with different mastering/rates but the exact same file names? I assume you are ripping burned CDs?

**Diasoft** · December 22, 2019, 04:24 PM

I give you an example. I ripped Ella Fitzgerald, Ella wishes you a Swinging Christmas, Verve, 2002, 12 original songs and 6 bonus tracks. Everything works fine, correct cover art. Ripped with

HA-N1Z/2EX-H60 and Buffalo BRXL 16u3 burner. Now I put the old CD, Verve, 1988 into the burner. It has only the original 12 songs, no bonus tracks. The 12 songs get ripped and replace the "same" (but different mastering) 12 songs from the 2002 CD I ripped first. Now I have one folder on the HDD with 12 original songs from the 1988 CD with the 1988 artwork and the 6 bonus tracks from 2002 with the new 2002 artwork. Both are original, pressed CDs, not burned CDs.

The new Melco EX has only Lite versions of Minimserver 2 and SongKong. Maybe full versions can solve the problem.

I will ask the distributor and we will see.
Thanks
Dirk

**dznutz** · December 22, 2019, 05:12 PM

The names must be identical on both CDs. You may have to burn them onto a computer and change the names.

Or, burn them onto the Melco, then transfer to a computer and back before proceeding with the other CD.

**nicoff** · December 22, 2019, 11:00 PM

Use a computer to rip the CDs. If you use software like DBPoweramp, you can adjust the name of the album before you rip it. For example, you can make it: “Kind of Blue (Master 10)”.

**Diasoft** · January 11, 2020, 10:03 AM

hifistatement.net says, that Melco N1-LAN-Aries Femto-USB-DAC sounds better then Melco N1-USB-DAC. Any experiences around here?

**SoundRebels** · October 28, 2020, 08:45 AM

Few months ago we had Melco N1A/2EX on tests, now we have Melco N1Z/2EX-H60, and ... differences are huge - the sound is much more mellow and more dynamic. And N1Z/2EX-H60 is more sensitive for cables (power, ethernet, usb)

Thread: Any Melco streamer fans here? Looking for your input.