Stream Magic 6 - is it really ?

[clerics]

 

[nopiano]

It is really a PITA that so many first posts don't appear. Don't worry, it isn't you!

 

[John Duncan]

It is really a PITA that so many first posts don't appear. Don't worry, it isn't you!

Could be worse...

Now, what's the question?

 

[nopiano]

Crumbs, John, that's a poor show. As it happens, I've been buying Autocar since I was ten (yes, 10) but often found the forum pretty naff. Maybe WHF and Gramophone should merge fora, as theirs could do with a bit of excitement!

 

[clerics]

Finally ! I think I am cooking !

The question was what are the best alternatives at the same price mark as the Stream Magic

i have an ND5XS in my home system so do not expect the Stream to get anywhere near that in my office / work

 

[John Duncan]

Yes spotted and fixed after posting...

 

[clerics]

Thanks John ! I see you have the Stream - so your answer is a given

 

[John Duncan]

Well, as luck would have it I had both the SM6 and an ND5XS in the house together for a couple of weeks. I found the Naim a little bit better sounding, but would find it extremely hard to justfiy the additional expense unless I absolutely needed:

- the undeniably better build quality;

- to match other Naim components;

- the better display, or;

- the arguably slicker iPad app.

 

[John Duncan]

Though I notice I haven't answered the actual question. What's it being partnered with?

 

[clerics]

See signature which has now gloriously appeared on my question less post !

The Stream would go with the little known but excellent Astin Trew

My ND5XS sits in the Naim system

Correct the iPad n stream app is great and I can play hi res files which I accept I won't with Magic

 

[John Duncan]

Not true - I'd have to check the exact specs because I think it differs between wireless, wired and USB but I can certainly play 24/96 over wireless.

Seen your sig now, thanks, and I don't think the SM6 would be out of place, but since you have the Caiman might you consider something a bit cheaper? Or would you get rid of the Beresford and use the Cambridge for DAC duties?

 

[clerics]

You are right ! Caiman would be surplus .

I think Magic is hi res over USB only ?

 

[John Duncan]

No, it'll do 24/96 over UPnP (though they recommend wired for high res, though it works OK for me on wireless), and 24/192 over USB (if you use the specific driver they provide).

 

[Singslinger]

The Stream Magic 6 is a very capable player that offers great VFM.

IMO the only other player which comes close is the Pioneer N-50 which I believe offers a colour screen at roughly the same price.