I have the Lumin in my system for a couple of months. The use of powerline adapter was intended to be a temporary measure to get things up and running. I felt its use might "pollute" the AC supplies. It turned out that the effect, if any was minimal (I use Shunyata and RSA conditioners for my audio gears) and the sound with the Lumin was so good and I have been so busy (read lazy) that there was no urgency to dismantle the powerline adapter.
Lumin Network Audiophile Music Player
- Thread starter Mike
- Start date
Thanks Mike for the very informative and thorough review of the Lumin streamer. I continue to enjoy my Linn Klimax, but given the increase in DSD content and support from companies including Sony, I'm starting to think about products like the Lumin that handle DSD.
I'd be curious to hear from Linn Klimax owners who have heard the Lumin.
Regards,
Van
I'd be curious to hear from Linn Klimax owners who have heard the Lumin.
Regards,
Van
- Thread Author
- #64
You're very welcome Van. The Klimax is a wonderful sounding piece. If I didn't have such a sizable DSD collection, then either the Klimax or Akurate would have garnered more serious consideration. As it stands, I couldn't be happier with the Lumin.
I played some vinyl (Andre Bocelli Passione) to compare to the Lumin (same album - redbook rip) today and it was VERY close.
I played some vinyl (Andre Bocelli Passione) to compare to the Lumin (same album - redbook rip) today and it was VERY close.
Jeffkad
New member
Mike, I read (ok, skimmed) the 6moons review on the Lumin and was impressed (and maybe a bit saddened lol) that it supposedly beat an esoteric k-03. That is some serious performance.
As you know, my problem is always the idea of having multiple boxes to accomplish "computer audio," ie, a separate PSU, NAS, ripper, and PC to download net-sourced music. It is thoroughly frustrating to read so many different opinions on how best to accomplish server based music playback: USB vs BNC/spdif, internal or external storage, fan or fanless, etc. in fact, fellow shark Elberoth, posting his findings on several forums, felt that the best transports were bested by a BADA USB to spdif converter. One could say that, with this result, the player is less important than the converter. I really wonder where the biggest impact lies, and whether we really need to spend 6k, 8k, 10k on a server, vs say 3-4k for a Baetis, Music Vault or Musica Pristina, or a simple PC/laptop with a better PSU and a great converter like the BADA. I think there is a great need for some shoot-outs between these different approaches.
In any event, much has been made of proper ripping, yet, whenever ripping isn't part of the server box, it isn't even discussed. The 6 moons article doesn't address it, and it's never addressed in any reviews of servers that don't rip. Yet, in a recent Enjoy the Music article, there was a clear distinction between 3 different ripping methods on the same red book cd. Some say that the actual physical mechanism doing the ripping can impact the sound quality. How do you rip your music? Have you tried different approaches/software?
Also, you were previously very impressed with the SQ of your Classe CP800 when used as a USB dac from your PC setup. How does this compare to the Lumin? BTW, the Classe uses a supposedly unique design that many reviews said yielded the best computer based SQ they've ever heard. Interestingly, the Lumin also uses an FPGA circuit (don't ask me what this means
) which was highly touted in the classe unit as providing a distinct performance advantage.
As you know, my problem is always the idea of having multiple boxes to accomplish "computer audio," ie, a separate PSU, NAS, ripper, and PC to download net-sourced music. It is thoroughly frustrating to read so many different opinions on how best to accomplish server based music playback: USB vs BNC/spdif, internal or external storage, fan or fanless, etc. in fact, fellow shark Elberoth, posting his findings on several forums, felt that the best transports were bested by a BADA USB to spdif converter. One could say that, with this result, the player is less important than the converter. I really wonder where the biggest impact lies, and whether we really need to spend 6k, 8k, 10k on a server, vs say 3-4k for a Baetis, Music Vault or Musica Pristina, or a simple PC/laptop with a better PSU and a great converter like the BADA. I think there is a great need for some shoot-outs between these different approaches.
In any event, much has been made of proper ripping, yet, whenever ripping isn't part of the server box, it isn't even discussed. The 6 moons article doesn't address it, and it's never addressed in any reviews of servers that don't rip. Yet, in a recent Enjoy the Music article, there was a clear distinction between 3 different ripping methods on the same red book cd. Some say that the actual physical mechanism doing the ripping can impact the sound quality. How do you rip your music? Have you tried different approaches/software?
Also, you were previously very impressed with the SQ of your Classe CP800 when used as a USB dac from your PC setup. How does this compare to the Lumin? BTW, the Classe uses a supposedly unique design that many reviews said yielded the best computer based SQ they've ever heard. Interestingly, the Lumin also uses an FPGA circuit (don't ask me what this means
) which was highly touted in the classe unit as providing a distinct performance advantage.
Mike, I read (ok, skimmed) the 6moons review on the Lumin and was impressed (and maybe a bit saddened lol) that it supposedly beat an esoteric k-03. That is some serious performance.
As you know, my problem is always the idea of having multiple boxes to accomplish "computer audio," ie, a separate PSU, NAS, ripper, and PC to download net-sourced music. It is thoroughly frustrating to read so many different opinions on how best to accomplish server based music playback: USB vs BNC/spdif, internal or external storage, fan or fanless, etc. in fact, fellow shark Elberoth, posting his findings on several forums, felt that the best transports were bested by a BADA USB to spdif converter. One could say that, with this result, the player is less important than the converter. I really wonder where the biggest impact lies, and whether we really need to spend 6k, 8k, 10k on a server, vs say 3-4k for a Baetis, Music Vault or Musica Pristina, or a simple PC/laptop with a better PSU and a great converter like the BADA. I think there is a great need for some shoot-outs between these different approaches.
In any event, much has been made of proper ripping, yet, whenever ripping isn't part of the server box, it isn't even discussed. The 6 moons article doesn't address it, and it's never addressed in any reviews of servers that don't rip. Yet, in a recent Enjoy the Music article, there was a clear distinction between 3 different ripping methods on the same red book cd. Some say that the actual physical mechanism doing the ripping can impact the sound quality. How do you rip your music? Have you tried different approaches/software?
Also, you were previously very impressed with the SQ of your Classe CP800 when used as a USB dac from your PC setup. How does this compare to the Lumin? BTW, the Classe uses a supposedly unique design that many reviews said yielded the best computer based SQ they've ever heard. Interestingly, the Lumin also uses an FPGA circuit (don't ask me what this means
Jeff, You have a GREAT handle on the ca situation! Could not agree more with everything you said. If you don't mind figure it out and let me know......it hurts my head:sigh:
the professor
Well-known member
I too have wondered about the different ripping methods and the various reports from people I have learned to respect over the years.
In my spare time (which has been almost none the last 3 months) I've been trying different methods and strange (to me) but reported great ways?????
But - DAMIT - there appear to be differences. And also differences in various UPNP servers.
I don't get it and don't understand it - this stuff makes cables sounding dif seem to make sense.
For example: My naim NDS sounds def different whether I'm running twonky UPNP or asset off a Mac mini or the naim unitiserve. Whereas the naim Unitiserve sounds best, no question. Oh and the Unitiserve rips also which sounds better than dbpowerap.
However, the linn Klinax I don't seem to notice a dif between twonky and the unutiserce but do with asset. ????? But rips still seem to better with the unitiserve over the dbpoweramp.
HOW CAN THIS BE - both are BIT PERFECT.
When running into a DAC I don't notice a difference between the rips. Yes - I KNIW - I'm crazy obviously.
This obsessive voodoo is enough to make ya drink ------- well, more than usual.
I think part of it is the polarity of the recording. Some processing might reverse polarity. I haven't got any facts, but listening to in and out of polarity on my preamp seems to make the same kind of differences in the ripping.
After CES I'm going to attack this more but so far - I have no clue - only questions.
In my spare time (which has been almost none the last 3 months) I've been trying different methods and strange (to me) but reported great ways?????
But - DAMIT - there appear to be differences. And also differences in various UPNP servers.
I don't get it and don't understand it - this stuff makes cables sounding dif seem to make sense.
For example: My naim NDS sounds def different whether I'm running twonky UPNP or asset off a Mac mini or the naim unitiserve. Whereas the naim Unitiserve sounds best, no question. Oh and the Unitiserve rips also which sounds better than dbpowerap.
However, the linn Klinax I don't seem to notice a dif between twonky and the unutiserce but do with asset. ????? But rips still seem to better with the unitiserve over the dbpoweramp.
HOW CAN THIS BE - both are BIT PERFECT.
When running into a DAC I don't notice a difference between the rips. Yes - I KNIW - I'm crazy obviously.
This obsessive voodoo is enough to make ya drink ------- well, more than usual.
I think part of it is the polarity of the recording. Some processing might reverse polarity. I haven't got any facts, but listening to in and out of polarity on my preamp seems to make the same kind of differences in the ripping.
After CES I'm going to attack this more but so far - I have no clue - only questions.
Jeffkad
New member
Thanks for the compliment, but my head hurts just as much. I started a thread over at Computer Audiophile, and also here, on best bets for a one box solution (pre packaged, software/hardware optimized, ripper, storage and playback in one box) and continue to read everything I can, but nothing is conclusive. I'm just so tired of researching and will pull the trigger soon on either a Musica Pristina, Baetis, or Music Vault. I may also try to get a used BADA USB to spdif converter as well to see for myself if this makes a significant difference.
the professor
Well-known member
Im 95% sure I'll have on mid January that I would be happy to bring over to see the differences. I don't have any DSD or you could come over to listen.
I'll let you know after CES
I'll let you know after CES
Jeffkad
New member
I too have wondered about the different ripping methods and the various reports from people I have learned to respect over the years.
In my spare time (which has been almost none the last 3 months) I've been trying different methods and strange (to me) but reported great ways?????
But - DAMIT - there appear to be differences. And also differences in various UPNP servers.
I don't get it and don't understand it - this stuff makes cables sounding dif seem to make sense.
For example: My naim NDS sounds def different whether I'm running twonky UPNP or asset off a Mac mini or the naim unitiserve. Whereas the naim Unitiserve sounds best, no question. Oh and the Unitiserve rips also which sounds better than dbpowerap.
However, the linn Klinax I don't seem to notice a dif between twonky and the unutiserce but do with asset. ????? But rips still seem to better with the unitiserve over the dbpoweramp.
HOW CAN THIS BE - both are BIT PERFECT.
When running into a DAC I don't notice a difference between the rips. Yes - I KNIW - I'm crazy obviously.
This obsessive voodoo is enough to make ya drink ------- well, more than usual.
I think part of it is the polarity of the recording. Some processing might reverse polarity. I haven't got any facts, but listening to in and out of polarity on my preamp seems to make the same kind of differences in the ripping.
After CES I'm going to attack this more but so far - I have no clue - only questions.
Oh boy. Now my head hurts even more, lol! :bonkers:
- Thread Author
- #71
Jeff - I know you have a desire to find a one box solution, but in my opinion, compromises will be made and limitations encountered.
If you have a laptop/desktop (for ripping redbook and downloading hi
res to the NAS) and a Synology or QNAP NAS in another room, then you will have just a one box solution with the Lumin (ok, two boxes since the PS is separate). It plays every format and sounds amazing! You connect your NAS to the router and use your wireless router to connect your iPad. iPad controls everything from there.
That being said, let's see what comes out of CES next week.
If you have a laptop/desktop (for ripping redbook and downloading hi
res to the NAS) and a Synology or QNAP NAS in another room, then you will have just a one box solution with the Lumin (ok, two boxes since the PS is separate). It plays every format and sounds amazing! You connect your NAS to the router and use your wireless router to connect your iPad. iPad controls everything from there.
That being said, let's see what comes out of CES next week.
the professor
Well-known member
My head has been and I'm just trying to figure out a way to verify I'm crazy or ??????
the professor
Well-known member
I haven't yet but - on my to do list is to set up a new synology NAS and I'm going to set it there. That way I'll have a qnap, synology, asset and unitiserve.
But again - why sound it make a sound difference? I can understand album art etc. but sound???????
Thanks for the thoughts.
But again - why sound it make a sound difference? I can understand album art etc. but sound???????
Thanks for the thoughts.
- Thread Author
- #76
As usual, you're one step ahead of me Jock. I haven't begun to compare different ripping programs and such.
I've heard DBPowerAmp (Windows only now, coming for Mac in Q3, 2014) is the best. I'm using XLD for Mac now. I have yet to compare a rip from XLD vs JRiver for Mac for example. I may dust off my copy of Windows XP (God help me) and run a dual boot on my MacBook Pro so I can use DBPowerAmp now.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
I've heard DBPowerAmp (Windows only now, coming for Mac in Q3, 2014) is the best. I'm using XLD for Mac now. I have yet to compare a rip from XLD vs JRiver for Mac for example. I may dust off my copy of Windows XP (God help me) and run a dual boot on my MacBook Pro so I can use DBPowerAmp now.
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Glareskin
New member
Well there is a lot more to digital than we really understand; even cables..
For the ripping software I cannot explain it either as I think they all use the same software. It could be that you've used different compression settings though.
I use XLD too Mike. I think it is good. But compared to dbPoweramp that I used to use on the PC it is more complicated and slow. I don't understand the whole pre gap sequence at the beginning. Do you know the purpose of that?
- Thread Author
- #78
I haven't a clue what it is doing. It looks like a freebie program designed by geeks! But, it works....even though the interface is a little clunky. Reminds me of a Windows program (oh no, cue Rob!)
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD
Are you ripping PCM to AiFF, ALAC, Flac or Wav? There is a lot of talk stating that wav sounds BETTER than AIFF and that even ALAC beats AIFF. However wav doesn't do auto tagging in Mac and FLAC has to be opened up everytime you play it and so that compromises SQ. At least for DSD,DSF is undisputed king.
Everywhere you look, there is a rabbit hole!
Everywhere you look, there is a rabbit hole!
Glareskin
New member
Hi Van,
You might want to read this thread.
This is the comparison they are discussing:
If you want to get rid of boxes here is a serious consideration:
Either Linn Akurate DSM, Linn Klimax DSM or Devialet (picture, hanging on the wall with the beautiful remote control) in combination with active speakers. This way you'll have streamer, DAC and pre-amp in one attractive box.
With the Linn Klimax Exakt you'll even have the DAC in the speaker...
