So Innuos has asked me if I would be interested to review the ZENMINI MK3 1TB. That is their entry model that is around $1250 with a built-in DAC. Let me know if there is an interest and I will ask them to send me. If not a lot of people are interested, I will pass on it. I forgot to thank James in this video who reached out to Innuos asking them to send me this unit. Finally if you gave the golden CD for the McIntosh ms300, plz let me know.
@papapatriot4 жыл бұрын
I was just looking yesterday at this! So the answer is yes! :)
@dmartyn38094 жыл бұрын
Yes, please.
@MeOdioAudio4 жыл бұрын
YES and YES
@thorcules4 жыл бұрын
I have tried the zen, zenith by itself and with the Phoenix USB reclocker. With every step the sound improves dramatically in my system. Granted I have a very highly resolving system. The improvement in power to the system is what makes the sound better with each upgraded model in the Innuos line. I ended up ordering the Statement that is scheduled to arrive this week.
@thorcules4 жыл бұрын
One thing to note for anyone looking to demo these streamers, make sure to give it at least 250 hours of burn-in. Also switching out the power cord to a quality cable improves the sound further.
@adriannorenberg32464 жыл бұрын
Great review Thomas! I owned the Zen MkII and sold it before I moved recently. It was probably the only piece of equipment that I was emotionally attached to. I don't know why, it's a computer. But it did make every DAC I tried it with sound better. PS. I tried the Zen Mini MkII and actually bought the Zen II blind because it bested a Bryston BDP-2 in an A/B test. They are great. And I build my own gaming/editing computers and still bought one.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Adrian, it seems many people who have tried it really like it.
@jasonmichaels47914 жыл бұрын
Thomas you have created such a great community and offer such great content - great job!
@ronaldmcdonald24564 жыл бұрын
Glad to see you looking at servers as I try to determine whether something off the shelf might be better in various ways than something I might try to assemble myself. The whole computer music scene has turned into a rat's nest with a dizzying array of products and an equally dizzying slate of claims. And, OF COURSE, the prices keep getting higher. sigh. So, all attempts at clearing away some of the smoke are appreciated. Just try to hold on to your sanity as you tread this treacherous path. :)
@riceman783 жыл бұрын
I love your videos. So well thought out and narrated.
@rogersharpe24903 жыл бұрын
Thomas , I didn’t hear you comment on the inbuilt streamer in this great product. It’s enabled with Tidal and Qobuz direct service and is Roon ready for subscribers to use effortlessly. Additionally, the USB connection to a DAC is galvanically isolated , and the Ethernet outlet is exceptional. Roger
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the info!
@chrisvinicombe99474 жыл бұрын
1TB for 4 grand 😂😂😂😂 sounds like robbery to me.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
But one of the most optimized 1 tb ssd on the planet for music!
@dannyng54274 жыл бұрын
I am using a 2011 Mac Mini (cost me $300 CAD used) with Audirvana and it sounds good. Also I heard that mechanical drives sound better than SSD, I am not sure if that is true.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@dannyng5427 Only way to know is AB test it! Yeah Mac are pretty sought after for music server.
@dannyng54274 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo I am pretty sure the MK3 sound better than the Mini. I have done AB test with Cambridge CXN V2, the Mini is more transparent, CXN has better dynamic but I prefer the Mini.
@Taladin12344 жыл бұрын
It provides a better digital signal Especially if you are streaming
@davidgill25203 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas, I purchased this Innuos unit six months ago. It's beautiful with no issues. I use a LAN connector from my modem to the unit and then USB plugged into my Mcintosh C2600 preamp with a built in dac. I believe it's not wifi compatible meaning you need a LAN connection. It streams and ripps beautifully using a free IPeng 9 remote app for windows. I can't comment on comparisons with cd transports or players but it's simple and flexible system. Thanks for all videos and support. Dave from Montreal
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Dave for the comment. Glad you are enjoying it.
@davidgill25203 жыл бұрын
People out there rely on these reviews, they don't always have the opportunity to listen to these components. I'm fortunate that I live in a city with lots of audio stores to at least listen to a few. Take care
@thingswelike4 жыл бұрын
Great to see the LUMIN T2 on the Amp - looks superb!
@goodsound47563 жыл бұрын
I bought a Zen MK3 already in 2019 and I did not have to buy a third-party software just to access it. Yes for indetail meta data management you want to use a third-party software if you use it as a UPnP server, so one uses the streamer player software for playback. You can also use it as a Roon core server, which you did not mention. I am pleased with this unit now after trying two other music servers before. I hope that one day you review Linn audio equipment.
@goodsound47563 жыл бұрын
I feel guilty for your „heart“: because you are correct, if you are feeding directly a DAC you would need a player software unless you would use streaming DAC with its own app. This was my only critique for the ZEN music servers that they do not come with fully fetched software for all purposes like Playback and advanced library management.
@volkerh82854 ай бұрын
Thomas Thanks. Even though 3 years back this was a very important review for me. My conclusion: the digital source is ABSOLUTELY underrated in impact of sound quality. Why comparing DACs if this is not fixed?
@ruudstet31864 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas, I recently listened to the mini mk3 with external power supply ibtwo different setting at two different dealers. Through it's internal dac it's sound stage was phenomenal, but the tone was not up to the naim competition I listened to as well. Logical, since the naim streamer is twice the price. Then at another dealer I heard the mini mk3 with psu and the zen mk2. There the zen did have that touch of high end you mentioned, but the mini didn't. I bought the zen. At half the price from a mk3, this mk2 demo was too tempting for me. For people who react that other solutions work just as well: listen to Thomas and try in your system. The quality of rips is simpele to hear and enjoy. Compared to the rip on computer, listen through usb drive setup I used previously, the zen mk2 is my ticket to the listening experience you described. Great. Will I save up for a mk3 or a zenith? With the feelgood factor the zen brings me, that will not happen soon. So should you test the mini? Yes, since I feel that the better quality rips put It above similarly priced competition. But test a zen mk3 at the same time, please. Because for someone who already owns a dac, the €500 extra is very well spent.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Congrats on your purchase, yeah let me check out the Innuos mini.
@rshrikha234 жыл бұрын
I was content with my Zenmini Mk2 (w/o LPSU), but recently came across a steal of a deal for a used Zenith Mk2. The Zenith definitely wins out with blacker backgrounds, better timing, more powerful and articulate bass, and realistic tone. The user experience also takes a step up if you use it with Roon. I’d imagine the Zenmini w/ LPSU comes close though.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Awesome, thanks for sharing your experience.
@mdr46704 жыл бұрын
Thomas, Innous has a similar unit, $2600 between the most expensive one and the bargain level one. According to other respected reviewers like yourself it's much closer performance wise to the unit in this review for a lot less. No dac but I prefer the Yggy2 anyway. Stay safe.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I see, I personally would like to review the basic one myself.
@jeanm2894 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo It great that all Innuos devices can be used both as RoonCore and Roon Endpoint integrated with Tidal, makes everything easy to use!
@simplereef48544 жыл бұрын
I have a SMS Ultra Neo in my house running Roon, and it out performs every PC/Mac that I have ever used. I think music server and file transport will be the future of audiophile community. The SMS that I have is pretty much equal to any $4000 CD player in the market, and it allows me to do everything that a CD player cannot do. EX: Airplay, Roon, Spotify, Tidal, Chrome-cast ... Needless to say, I am putting my CD player on Audigon for sale
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I have a SMS200, I need to give it a try, it is just sitting there.
@davehwang68154 жыл бұрын
You got Lumin T2 finally. Great!
@k7wong4 жыл бұрын
How do you compare between LUMIN and Innuos? I am deciding between the two but I mainly need a streamer transport only
@benoitdugas7453 жыл бұрын
Great job Thomas. I would love to get my hands on a Ms 300.
@myronhelton44414 жыл бұрын
I like the way the Focal tweeter sounds.
@contemporaryartist65425 ай бұрын
Have one, to die for.
@softtack4 жыл бұрын
Wish this unit had built in Chromecast.
@scottyo644 жыл бұрын
I have been in Telecommunications since 1982! Now after having a streamer I would love to have one thst rips as well. Something to think about
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Well, they do have an entry level one.
@shokrykhaledful4 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas, did you realize you have followers in Egypt ? I took your advise on the Buchardt S400 (amazing) & on the Zenith (not received yet). Have a few recommendations for you as well, that will also shock you, 😀
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Nice, what recommendations?
@shokrykhaledful4 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo Dear Thomas, DOGE a small company out of China, I tried the Doge 8 clarity (2019 edition) after 2 weeks, I sold my US made pre’s, that new were at double & triple the price. I tested again with the Doge 7 tube Dac , again a beautiful analog sounding machine. A keeper, will now order the prima donna integrated to taste their amplification.
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Nice, they did reach out to me. YOu said the Doge clarity is good?
@shokrykhaledful3 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo good is an understatement, I first ordered the Doge 8 Clarity then the Doge 7 Dac, I just ordered yesterday their new Doge 5 integrated.
@mdr46704 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas. I was referring to the $2600 ZEN Mk3 in my previous post. Thanks.
@roguemodel4 жыл бұрын
Well, I've been terminated. I bought the cheaper one, my wife wants to know where Thomas lives! She would like to pay him a visit.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Haha...it was nice knowing you.
@TheAlanFish4 жыл бұрын
Personally I just built a passively cooled HTPC with a SSD (Streacom FC-8A Chassis) which I built myself for a bit under a grand, and use my main desktop as my bulk storage from another room so I can't hear the hard drive when I stream music. For a DAC I am using a MiniDSP DDRC-24 with Dirac Live Processing via USB audio, and I can't see myself ever needing anything more. If there is noise there, I can't hear it. You can barely hear a tiny bit of hiss with your ears right up against the tweeters. I don't have much experience with high end DACs, and I honestly don't care to because it feels like the true money pit of return on your dollar in audio to me.
@NosTubes584 жыл бұрын
Mac doesn’t require drivers........, as it’s set up with standard usb protocol. It’s Windows which needs to have drivers loaded from the DAC or servers sites.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Yes, but some DAC will need MAC drivers. For example, my exasound E28.
@renantebarroga61543 жыл бұрын
Thomas...I am going back to digital after a hiatus of 10 years and concentrated on analog. Even though I work in the IT field...I gave tons of questions and the cheaper Innous intrigued me. I live in the Montreal area. Get in touch with me...would like to ask you questions about music server..thanks
@mariocassar31174 жыл бұрын
Love your reviews, but with all respect, do you expect differences between the Krell CD transport and the TEAC in the Innuos Zenith mk3? Perhaps there is an old TEAC in the Krell.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I did not AB test it myself but for my friend, he felt there was a a consistent difference. Meaning he was able to pinpoint to me where the difference shows up. I personally think those differences are so small that people need to really go into deep meditation to hear the difference. I doubt many people will pass a double blind test when comparing. Having said that, some people that I have met have a hearing of a bat and they will be able to but most people I doubt will.
@iampuzzleman282 Жыл бұрын
Just a follow up to my earlier comment. With all the things you look at I'm curious why networks switches have not received your attention? Seems to me noise in the system is something worth eliminating and network switches are worthy of attention. I've spent time looking into all this and and given the cost which ain't much to buy a better network switch the cost benefit clearly seems to be there.
@ThomasAndStereo Жыл бұрын
I try to focus on things that make a big difference and also look at things that don't get people throwing pitchfork at me.
@bionicbob12854 жыл бұрын
I have the software for the MS300 - MS750. Will allow you to swap internal hard drives, install new software and read/write music. If I recall its the CD has ALL the software and manuals/repair schematicsfor ALL McIntosh products 1949 through 2008 I believe. Been a while since I last used it. It may be the Golden CD.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Nooooooooooooooooooooo.. I just sold it and shipped it out this morning. I was trying to clone the harddrive the day before :(
@bionicbob12854 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo oh no. Sorry... I can send you the disc for future reference. It definitely works...
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
If you can! My other friend has one that is dead. Can you email me at turbotan@gmail.com?
@bionicbob12854 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo yes sir... I left the disc at my 2nd home with my home theater system. I'll email later this week. I believe the entire disc has close to 600mb on it. We can talk via email in case you want the entire disc will all the contents. I got the disc from an employee and became very popular on the forums. lol
@sparklestudios20834 жыл бұрын
Hey Thomas, I I'm still waiting for your review of entry level innous streamer dec.
@dajikbatarang14 жыл бұрын
You really need to try a raspberry pi with the Allo hat digital out, its quite good.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I was looking into one actually. It seems complicated.
@stillmotion77794 жыл бұрын
I'm using the Allo usbridge signature player and I have to say it's a lot of quality for the money 💰
@dajikbatarang14 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo it's really easy feel to reach out if you need any help
@shahidyt4 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo I have the Allo Digione Signature, great little streamer with Volumio, but it was a pain to set up if you aren’t that technical. Once setup, it has been fine
@mawe66284 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo I as well have just recently bought the Allo USBridge Signature with the linear power-supply called Shanti, all together just below 500,-€, Running moOde software as OS and it was not difficult to set it up to just play/stream from my NAS and Tidal. It only has quality USB out, no wifi, no SPDIF, and is as stripped down as much as possible for a small computer to reduce noise. I'm using the free APP mconnect on my iPhone to control the stream from my NAS and Tidal. I can as well stream from my MacBook with Audirvana to the device without any additional setup, only to select the device in Audirvana. Would love to see a comparison to the costly units.
@blainerivera97334 жыл бұрын
I use the Zen MK3. I recently added an ISO REGEN to the equation. Seems a significant improvement. Have you tried this?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
No. Interesting.
@iampuzzleman2822 жыл бұрын
Have you ever looked at Netwerk switches? I recently bought the English eight switch end it seems OK. makes me feel good.
@ThomasAndStereo Жыл бұрын
No, Mr. Jazz yes and he was very surprised.
@nickmimi36314 жыл бұрын
Thank you Thomas for taking some time to review this unit. Zenith MK3 w/ Exogal ION power DAC combo and Roon has provided that final top 10% of performance I was searching for in my digital system. For those continuing to listen “old school” style this is not for you, to the rest choosing to use today’s available technology this is currently a pinnacle of performance if your wallet can take the hit and you want some of the best equipment available. Of course there are other choices/combos out there too that will provide this level of performance, unfortunately there are currently no “giant killers” that i auditioned, that will do it for “cheap”, SQ is subjective, YMMV, IMO, etc. Happy listening to all.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Thanks Nick for sharing you experience 😉
@Alex555554 жыл бұрын
I wonder what kind of servers does Spotify/Tidal/Amazon/Qobuz use?
@stevenbeau62684 жыл бұрын
Another very nice review...s
@Nightjar7262 жыл бұрын
Thomas. From just a streamer point of view is the blue sound node as good ? Not the internal DAc. Thanks !
@ThomasAndStereo2 жыл бұрын
If you are asking for software, the Bluesound has pretty good software while this one does not. This one wins in terms of sound quality.
@Nightjar7262 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo no not software but that helped too. Lol. I was asking about how it sounds just as a streamer, you know all the galvanic isolation and being a quiet network streamer. Thanks man !
@blejzerosamigos61154 жыл бұрын
Thomas another great video thanks much, how do you compare this one to bluesound node 2i thanks again
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Node 2i is a streamer and this is a music server so can't compare.
@blejzerosamigos61154 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo but it can also stream from Tidal etc.
@paulroscelli25454 жыл бұрын
I have the Zen, not zenith, Mk II and I love it thanks for the review
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Nice I have to give it a try the Zen.
@tthedon24714 жыл бұрын
4k? no way. it rhymes :)
@topkho4 жыл бұрын
Do you plan to try Allo Digi One or Pi2 AES streamers?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Not in the plans
@topkho4 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo this might be of interest: www.superbestaudiofriends.org/index.php?threads/dummies-guide-to-pi2aes-throw-away-your-pc-or-laptop.8878/
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@topkho Yeah, I was looking at those at one point, I finally gave up on it as I was too lazy to figure out everything.
@topkho4 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo same here but it’s not as difficult as it seems. Looked really really daunting and off putting at first - I’m nota computer geek and don’t want to be one - but in fact is not. It’s all done on your phone...
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I am sure I can as I am really comfortable with computers, just lazy!
@GlaciaDay4 жыл бұрын
You should probably try the Melco/DELA music servers. Awesome sounding server/streamers. Very musical, sometimes I just forget that I am listening to a digital file.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Wow, they won a lot of recommendation too.
@ayc868 Жыл бұрын
Which model? do you have detail?
@JayardGeorge3 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas, I sold my Denon AVC X6500H to move to completely music oriented system. I am eyeing on the Innous Zen MKIII but will it be sufficient alone for my need. I am having a pair of KEF Q950 floor standing speakers. The question is, can the Zen MKIII connect to the speakers directly? If not what else am I supposed to include to make the system complete? Sorry, if this is an absurd question, I am so new to all this and sometimes do get lost in the many equipment available. My source of music will be online and CDs. Thanks so much and looking forward to hearing from you. Cheers
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
No you cannot connect this to your speaker. Think of this as a cd player but instead it uses a harddrive to store music. What you are looking for is an integrated amp.
@JayardGeorge3 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo Thank you so much for your reply. Could you please suggest a few models which I could look into? While using the AVR earlier I could notice the KEFs are power-hungry. Cheers
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Depends on your budget
@JayardGeorge3 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo roughly USD 1,800/-. Thank you so much for helping me.
@NoEgg4u3 жыл бұрын
Two questions: 1) @6:36 "Just take out your cell phone, your tablet, and you can access this unit within 30 seconds, after you press the power button" Are your only options, for interacting with the music player, to use a smart phone or a tablet? Can you use a laptop? I prefer to type using a real keyboard, when I am, for example, entering search criteria or filter criteria, for a song, artist, album, etc. Can you connect your laptop to the Innuos music player, and bring up the same (or similar) interface that would appear on your tablet? 2) @6:47 "...load JRiver (Media Center)" Interesting that you mentioned JRiver... I currently use JRiver's Media Center, to have my laptop feed my DAC, and it sounds very good (or so I thought). In an audio store, I recently heard one of the Innous music players, on a stereo very similar to mine. With the Innous controlling noise and jitter, I became aware of how noisy my laptop is. So now I need to buy one of the Innous music players. But I love the seemingly unending flexibility that I have with JRiver's Media Center, and I do not want to give it up. Can JRiver's Media Center connect to the Innous music player? Can the Innous music player accept the data stream from my laptop, re-clock the digital samples and deliver a bit-perfect and noise free data stream to my DAC? (the audio store knew only the basics of the music player, and they used a smart phone -- so they could not answer my questions) Thank you.
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Why not email them to confirm. Yes you can access it with your computer. Jriver I don't remember but they are quite responsive.
@NoEgg4u3 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo "Why not email them (Innuos) to confirm"? I started my efforts with the audio store's personnel. Upon them not being able to answer my questions, they conferenced me in with an Innuos representative. Mark, from Innuos, was basically reading from a script, singing the virtues of the player, but had little more than that by way of the information that I was seeking. He constantly interrupted my questions, and kept answering things that I did not ask. I concluded that was his modus operandi, for trying to hide his lack of knowledge on the subject matter. He knew only the basics that accompany the literature for the product. I respect people that say "I don't know", or "I'll get back to you with an answer", etc. But this guy just kept changing the subject, and it was frustrating. So I pressed him for an answer to the JRiver Media Center compatibility question, and his answer was "No", the player is not designed for that (which was a wrong answer that he just guessed at (but I did not know, yet, that his answer was wrong)). With the above experience, I had little faith at expecting meaningful communication from e-mailing Innuos. So I asked my questions in JRiver's forum, and got no replies (it is not something that that community really deals with), and I also search (via duckduckgo.com) for articles (nothing answered my questions) and I search youtube (and you mentioned what I was looking to have answered). Finally, I decided that I have nothing to lose by e-mailing support@innous.com After a few back and forth e-mail exchanges, Emmanuel Le Quere , Innuos North America Sales Manager, wrote the following: "J River works with the UPnP protocol. The great thing about LMS is that it has been there forever and is free software, so many people are working around it... There are plug-ins available (for free) for UPnP that I personally use. With one, you can use your j-River on your computer as the Graphic Interface and direct the music to the Statement for playback. You can have the best of both worlds." (best of both worlds meaning: be able to use the fantastic JRiver Media Center front end, and delivered to my DAC via the silent, jitter-free transport of the Innuos player). I do not understand what LMS is. But I do understand that he wrote that the Innuos player would work with JRiver's Media Center. In one additional e-mail exchange, I asked him if there would be any loss in fidelity, by not using the Innuos' built-in player. He replied: "No loss in sound quality... they use the UPnP protocol to carry the data but the LMS player to play the music." Again, since I do not know what LMS is (even after I read the wikipedia page), I do not entirely understand his reply. The part I do understand is "No loss in sound quality". That is the long saga that I experienced. Now I will be borrowing the Innuos player from my local audio store, just to make sure that it gets along with my gear (not all quality components are a good match for each other). So it is good that can listen in my own living-room, which eliminates any guess work before plunking down my hard-earned $$. Cheers!
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
@@NoEgg4u Thanks for sharing and let us know your result. This will help others too.
@NoEgg4u3 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo I will share my results. But it will be at least a week, because I do not have a shelf to place this additional box. And it needs to be near my DAC, because the only output on the Innuos player is USB, and my USB cable is 2 meters. Yes, longer ones are available. But cables matter (even USB data cables matter). I am not going to buy a longer cable for this test because 1) a longer, inexpensive Walmart-type USB cable will kill the sound quality, 2) a longer quality USB cable is expensive, and 3) it is important to keep USB cables short (no more than 3-meters -- although 5-meters is supposed to be the limit, I will not flirt with the limit of its reliability). So I have to buy a stand for the Innuos box, that will allow me to place it close to my DAC. This is going to delay my efforts to do a listening test. And then there is the issue of a quality power cord. Quality power cords are critical for all digital hardware. I might be able to find one, temporarily, but it is yet another delay. By the way, can you or anyone reading this explain what LMS is? Is it just some background process that I need not worry about? Is it something I have to configure? I am blank on what it is and how it fits in to this whole process. Thank you.
@NoEgg4u3 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo I listened to the Innuos player, and was very impressed (for the most part). It handily sounded better than my laptop (with JRiver's Media Center) feeding my DAC. Everything was quieter and more focused, and it allowed me to hear more into the music. But as good as the improvement was (and it was significant), it was not all positive. The bass became a problem. Although it was more focused, etc, it now sounded disconnected from the rest of the stereo. There appeared to be an emphasis on the mid-bass, which I believe is responsible for the issue. The audio store's owner suggested that I replace my pre-amp and power-amp's after-market power cords with the stock power cords, and use after-market power cords only for the DAC and the Innuos player. Unfortunately, after I replaced all of my power cords, I gave my stock power cords to the store (they were always misplacing power cords for some reason). I am going to the audio store, today. They are loaning me stock power cords, and I will repeat my listening session. By the way, I had a heck of a time getting my laptop to connect to the Innuos player. It turned out that my laptop was using a range of IP addresses that were not routable to the Innuos' IP address. Once I determined that that might be the issue, I knew how to fix that, and I was able to connect. But I still had a problem, because the Innuos support person told me to direct my web browser to the Innuos' IP address at port 9000. For example: 192.168.0.2:9000 That worked, but it was only for setting up the Innuos player. After yet another delay, due to e-mail being the only option to communicate with Innuos support, it turns out that you leave off the port number to access the part of the player that plays the music. For example: 192.168.0.2 The Innuos support person e-mailed me to wait until I purchase the player, and only then will he instruct me on how to get JRiver's Media Center to feed the Innuos box. I replied back that he needs to help me get this working on the loaner Innuos player, because that is why it was loaned to me. I will not spend thousands and cross my fingers that it will be to my liking. I am running out of time, because the store wants their Innuos box back today or tomorrow. If I cannot lick the problem with the bass, then this will be no sale. I cannot have a stereo where some frequency, some item, some anything, stands out. That item becomes a source of irritation. By the way, I suspect that most people use their smart-phone or tablet to control these players. Such a set-up requires you only to install an app, and you are good to go. I prefer to use my laptop, and it seems that Innuos is not especially adept at having clear instructions for this type of set-up.
@markd42923 жыл бұрын
Glad you did the review on the Innous. I was considering the entry level with LPSU. But first I am thinking of starting with the Bluesound to see if I will enjoy streaming from Tidal etc. Some of me wants to just spin LPs and CDs/SACDs and maybe internet radio. I'll play around for 3 months to 6 months with BlueSound and If I like, I'll jump up to the Innous. I think the SSD would be better than the HDD don't you? Is the hard drive quiet? Thanks.
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Harddrive is quiet as it is SSD.
@Paul-dr8tq4 жыл бұрын
That's interesting to hear that this is comparable (within 5%) to a CD transport. So where does that leave us if considering the Taiko Audio Extreme music server (24K euros for the base model). This surely then is daylight robbery if this machine at a fraction of the price is CD transport quality. Sound surely doesn't get better than this?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Well, even Innuos has a higher end model themselves.
@Paul-dr8tq4 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo so what does that say unless Mr Cantor's Krell isn't up to the task! ; )
@kuisin884 жыл бұрын
Curious of how this would compare to the i5 Sonic Transporter. Even though the i5 does not have cd ripping capability, but be interesting to compare the sound quality.
@sumitagg14 жыл бұрын
Did you ever think about comparing the Innuos to the melco? The zenith is about the same price as a melco n1a 2ex+ their CD player. Many dealers have told me that even rips are better when done with the melco. Not so with the innuos.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Not really unless Melco reach out to me.
@jamessy42644 жыл бұрын
since you are on this topic ..... you have any thoughts or ever tried testing Aurender w20 streamer/player?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Only if they send me.
@edwinsprojects7039 Жыл бұрын
How would this compare to Naim ND5 Xs2? Thanks
@Spwrey4 жыл бұрын
I understand your opinions but for those that know a thing or two about pc`s, we can tell that the unit is not worth the price, even though it might sound better than what you have. I would like you to try this to test against other servers. Get a mini pc (cheap one), buy an SSD if it doesn`t come with one. As for the tweaks, remove the wifi/bluetooth card, do this yourself or ask for someone to de-solder the usb ports that you don`t use, de-solder the integrated audio ports and chip, and after you`re done with that you can install a dedicated OS like Daphile,Volumio etc. All of this shouldn`t cost more than 100$, maybe more if you want to add a usb cleaner and a linear power supply.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Sure I understand all that. In fact I used to own a computer store and repair computers. As I said, this is a solution for certain people. If you meet as many audiophiles and heard as many system as I have, you will find everyone looks for different solutions. We all understand the whole idea about any gear is to minimize noise and for sure you can achieve a lot of amazing stuff by doing what you said. The SOTM server I have here is also another solution at an incredible price.
@Spwrey4 жыл бұрын
I do understand that the Zenith sounds very good as it should do because it`s been tweaked properly, but for me the hardware inside does not justify the price, just like many other products on the market, although someone else might have a different opinion. They`re using a Supermicro motherboard and not one built by them , that mobo can be purchased by anyone else.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@Spwrey I actually asked them about the motherboard cause another youtube brought that up which he later made another video to apologize for assuming that. No, no one can buy that motherboard, it even has a customized bios. Hardware alone never justifies the price and this is true if you look at everything in the industry. Look at a $1000 speaker, probably $100 in parts? But to bring something to market and the cost of doing business is something that needs to be factor in. Also, there are many things to consider, for example, the look of a product. The ease of use and so forth.
@Spwrey4 жыл бұрын
Indeed there are many things to factor in, but even though the server sounds really good, you can still get maybe 90%-95% of that just by doing the tweaks yourself at a much lower price. Although there are a lot of people that don`t bother with that, they just want to buy the device, plug it in and play music, and for them a server like the Zenith is perfect.
@timski91304 жыл бұрын
Bo Bo, if someone is running a very revealing system (aka hi-end) then the quality or price of the components that make up a product is a mute point. They are seeking the 'best' sound quality for them. I run such a system and can assure anyone that the Zenith is a serious piece of kit. If you can find/build a computer based system that equals it, then start doing so as it will sell very well. In the meantime, I will enjoy the streaming and server capabilities of the Zenith.
@cybergod774 жыл бұрын
Is the Gershman Grande Avant-Garde up for review next? Pls post a few demo clips, thks
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
In the next few videos.
@kvrhifi4 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas Great video . I wish you would’ve included comparison with LUMIN streaming quality. After upgrading to LUMIN u1 mini .. I understands streamers are equally important as CD player or Turntable. If we are into streaming and Roon is the way to go for best experience. LUMIN U1 mini way better than my audiolab 6000CDT Transport and nice 2i.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I probably will touch on it a bit more when I talk about the Lumin streamer.
@kvrhifi4 жыл бұрын
@Thomas & Stereo; thank you.
@shingdaz4 жыл бұрын
Amp designers should know the math to be able to voice those Large Hundred thousand dollars systems into more space s/cost savings designs.(Not Class D Hypex designs etc)
@xstensl88232 жыл бұрын
i don't need a DAC or CD ripper, just a transport. how would this compare to a iFi Zen Stream or Lumin Mini as a transport?
@ThomasAndStereo2 жыл бұрын
Sorry, I have not listen to those 2 yet.
@riledrive25044 жыл бұрын
This needs a streamer? What is the difference between a streamer and a server? How happy are you with your Lumin? I am planning on getting a Lumin as well (transport only). Thanks for the video.
@khalid9694 жыл бұрын
This stuff is so confusing. And there are different types of streamers. I still don't understand the difference between a network player and a network bridge, and of course you can use either to stream music. I'm ready to give up lol
@riledrive25044 жыл бұрын
Khalid Akkad - you cannot give up! Thomas will explain it to us. I am confused too.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
A streamer is a dac that will get music from the internet or from a music server.Not all streamer have a built in drive to house the music so it must get it from somewhere. I can explain better when I make the video on the Lumin streamer.
@riledrive25044 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo - thank you!
@davidfriedman51544 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo some streamers don't have a built in DAC though, such as SoTM sms 200 ultra. I have a server which serves as Roon core, a streamer that serves as Roon end point, and a DAC. All three separate.
@visiblehiggs1304 жыл бұрын
What do you think of high end headphones/earphones ? Or are you speaker only person?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Only into speakers.
@Grizzly16443 жыл бұрын
Not trying to sound smart, but this device appears to be a pretty standard computer with LPS, deadening and body tweaks? I would love to blind test this vs my RPI. Devices like this are just optimised PCs. An interesting video would be you and your friends in a blind test, changing streamer sources! See if you can pick the source.
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
Nah! I will be tramatized for life if I failed the blind test 🤣
@MrJoep124 жыл бұрын
Look at the Auralic Aries/Altair with the new rip option. You will be amazed.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Would love to and wish they would reach out to me.
@WakingWildHope4 жыл бұрын
Thomas, if same album, play by CD, rip to innuos server or buy from HDtrack. Which one is sound better?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Oh I would need to AB test it to really answer you. Cause if they have the song in 24/96 native, then it might be better?
@WakingWildHope4 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo I would like to say the answer is HDtracks, you can AB test if you won’t believe
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I do have songs I bought from hdtrack and the cd / SACD too. Maybe I will do an ab test one day
@merlecrandall17094 жыл бұрын
Go for it
@Audiojunkabus4 жыл бұрын
take the $$ and get a NAS Drive + Bluesound & then use the leftover cash go on a vacation.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I had the bluesound node 2i before and great little streamer but for a different market.
@midorihibiki4 жыл бұрын
This Innuos Zenith MK 3 music server is on another level from Bluesound.
@Audiojunkabus4 жыл бұрын
@@midorihibiki what level might that be on a scale of 1-10 ? worth 4x the cost - I think not (for me)- ... Rolls Royce is on another level vs a Corvette - - the Corvette will out perform all day long, --and be right there with any other car 5 times + the cost... what's the point?
@midorihibiki4 жыл бұрын
@@Audiojunkabus You can search John Darko who has many music servers and streamers. He did a sound comparison of many budget to high end gears. I do not have Bluesound and Innous server so can not say but Innous Zenith MK 3 servers definitely win Bluesound in term of sound quality. Hope that could help you. Moreover in audiophile the more you spend money to buy better/high end gears does not mean you get the better performance to ratio money. So if you're happy with your gears then you can stop. However if you want more then you need to be rich or save more money, sometimes spend thousands, double, triple or even more but just get 5-10-15-20% better results.
@BastianUllr4 жыл бұрын
Are those Gershamn Acoustics speakers?? Will you review them soon!?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Yes and I will be next or very soon.
@BastianUllr4 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo Thrilling!!! I am still yet to listen to Gershman Avant Garde and Graham Acustics LS5/5. I think that's my top end. They are very similarly priced, and they both seem to have tone sound as goal, sounding as lifelike as possible, rather than as detailed as possible. Looking forward to your impressions!! I know there is a good representative of Graham acoustics over in Montreal. It would be interesting if you could eventually consider checking the Graham acoustics. It's comparable to Rogers :)
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@BastianUllr Yeah,these speakers are really something. It will be a very interesting video as I have lots to talk about. Graham...hopefully one day.
@turbo22884 жыл бұрын
You friend who has the jeff rowland power amplifiers, what kind of speakers he has??
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Raidho D3
@linmi94724 жыл бұрын
5k a streamer? unless you have 10k DAC plus a 2k digital cable, now days 15k DAC should have build in streamer. For me, it is no no.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
In the audio world, there is no limit. Most expensive DAC I heard was $100k, different people shop at different level, now I just need to win that damm lottery.
@linmi94724 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo so true, poverty limits our imagination 😂
@djhmax094 жыл бұрын
I always wondered if I’m truly losing quality when ripping cds from an external optical reader to my laptop vs one of those expensive dedicated rippers....... but I guess I shouldn’t worry too much according to the video
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Ripping should not be a problem. You are preserving the exact copy of the data on the cd.
@matzeflamingos4 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo my friend ripped with an Highend machine (Xo-one) and with a pioneer bluray toploader (external computer drive). He compared both rippings and came to the result that this 100€/$ pioneer make a awsome job. Ripping isn't like ripping
@NT-LTS4 жыл бұрын
Next try a DDC or Reclocker like Mutec MC-3+ USB, or GD Audio DI-20HE. Innuos only output USB, so try these DDC Aes output in to your DAC. If your DAC is good, you will love the sound. IMO the Gustard is a little under-spec for your system.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Yes I agree for the Gustard so when I use the Lumin Streamer, there is a big difference.
@20puskinas19924 жыл бұрын
I still dont get what does this do? Its like playback device or something? Can you use it with games or movies?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
No, only music. Just think of it as a computer that only house music.
@TheITGuy843 жыл бұрын
How about a guide for building your own music server?
@gordonlesforis7724 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas Do you use room labs in your steup Thank Gordon
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
No I don't. Thanks.
@fizywig4 жыл бұрын
The new AURALiC 2.1 aries bridge will stream in a superior way to this innuous zenith 3,
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
No idea, I never AB tested it. If you did, what are the differences that you heard?
@desferous71784 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas! Thank you for the thoughts on the Zenith MK3. You spoke about it not working with every DAC because of ... I can't remember what you said. How would I be able to tell if the Zenith will work with a DAC or not? Thank you!
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
If your DAC does not need mac computer drivers, then it will work. Just go to manufacturer website for your DAC, if no mac driver ,then you are good.
@ericshutter53054 жыл бұрын
MS300 sounds interesting IF that hard-drive is replaced by SSD ...
@joecartwright92217 ай бұрын
👍
@mutiger20014 жыл бұрын
Are you able to download high res audio files to the built in drive?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I don't have it anymore but I remember you can import but check with them to be sure.
@glichasasha7502 жыл бұрын
An SSD with vibration treatment?
@cheech2053 жыл бұрын
How does the lumin compare to innuos?
@JingoLoBa574 жыл бұрын
Uncle Thomas tell me a story please 🤖
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Bed time story, my videos will put you to sleep
@Grizzly16443 жыл бұрын
Hi Thomas. I’m curious have you tired Roon?
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
I am actually reviewing roon right now.
@Grizzly16443 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo I love Roon. Changed the way I listen to music, its introduced me to so many new artists I never would have listened to. Nothing comes close to the user experience period. I use Ropieee XL on a RPI4 and Roon server on a windows PC, i7. Doesn't break a sweat doing DSD and convolution filters. I am actually looking to build active speakers (2 way 15inch Compression) using Roon for crossover duties. I sold my Pioneer n70a, Cambridge CXN v2 (which I don't rate) in favour of the RPI4 sound quality into my RME ADI2 Fs. I asked because I haven't heard you mention Roon compatibility on any of the streamers etc you test. IMO, you'll never use native control apps again.
@netnakul4 жыл бұрын
Is it possible these expensive vendors have some hidden DSP that creates the difference you hear? IMO, the "optimisation" they listed sounds gimmicky as s##$$
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I think gear with good power supply makes a difference. If you look at higher end gear, that is one thing they have in common. Is it DSP, I don't have the technical knowledge to even start guessing.
@ethan80234 жыл бұрын
BTW, X26 has a terrible USB input design, I believe the Innuos will improve the sound performance. Get a U16, it will dramatically eliminate the Innuos' influence.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
That is what I have read and I was wondering why people say that.
@ethan80234 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo U16 the whole device is for feeding nice I2S signal to DAC, it's not perfect but much better than the USB interface in X26. It should be integrated into X26, but obviously, the designer decided to cut the cost.
@ayc868 Жыл бұрын
you said " every time you dealing computer , you lose fidelity ". of cause, because your network sucks. any gear you attached RJ45 you lost 40% FIDELITY, regardless you have million dollar setup. you need good switch + CAT wire. no switching PS on modem/router .. etc...
@dgreenly14 жыл бұрын
I dont know what it is but i also perfur cd and sacd. The new mofi cars heartbeat city is incredible lol
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Maybe when you play thru your cdplayer, it sounds better than your current DAC with your computer?
@dgreenly14 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo very true my dac isnt very good currently debating a audiobyte black dragon then buy anouther mit zcord2
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@dgreenly1 That looks like a really serious DAC. What is your current cdplayer?
@dgreenly14 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo its nothing to great my friend sold me his dvp-s9000es and it sounds great to my ears
@keithbertschin12132 жыл бұрын
Interesting that you say ‘what I say here should apply to the cheaper model’! er… hmm….wh…
@iampuzzleman2822 жыл бұрын
How does this compare to a nucleus?
@ThomasAndStereo Жыл бұрын
Sorry, no idea.
@arcforceworld4 жыл бұрын
I could tell you how to convert the hard drive into an ssd, but you have to be committed to some serious nerd play. Youre gonna need a whole other computer with disk inputs to spare. One for the hard drive from the MS600 And another one for the SSD you wish to use. And youre going to have to look into a piece of software called MiniTool. If you can figure that much out the rest is pretty self explanatory.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the tip, let me check out MiniTool.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Problem is windows cannot see the drive unless I 'do something to it' with disk manager and I don't want to risk changing anything on that harddrive.
@arcforceworld4 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo hmm. what exactly is it asking you to do? you should be able to mark that drive as active or something. I'm surprised minitool doesnt detect the ms600 drive by itself.
@jeffkalina77273 жыл бұрын
That high frequency ring is very annoying
@cybergod774 жыл бұрын
Did the Innuos sound better than the Lumin?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Lumin is a streamer so not the same.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@markm5769 Yes but you will need a DAC. The Lumin, on the other hand need a drive as it cannot house music.
@kurt1200320023 жыл бұрын
So they basically failed. I buy 3k plus box that does not work flawless with mid to hi end DACs? Nobody cares it is basically a pc. It is a player for all intents and purposes, and this player requires drivers, does not send word clock, compatibility is meh at best... it is a fail. They need to output optic, AES and I2S with, a dedicated word clock included, and proper software
@oohtob66853 жыл бұрын
Does it play SACD?
@ThomasAndStereo3 жыл бұрын
I don't think so. Check specs on their website.
@JingoLoBa574 жыл бұрын
Thomas take a look at OCD HIFI Guy’s review of this unit. He cans it. Second take a look at alternatives. Simpler servers and compare quality for audio. Another minefield in Hi-Fi... take care.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I see but I think he then made a video and reversed his position. kzfaq.info/get/bejne/g598art335fMXac.html
@JingoLoBa574 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo pulled his direction fast. Wondering if he was warned of legal action. Lots of contrition. Anyway, make your views it’s popular sport.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
@@JingoLoBa57 I don't live in the States so I don't know about if they can sue but if that is the case, wouldn't it be easier just to take down the original video? Also I noticed he never even heard the unit so...
@JingoLoBa574 жыл бұрын
Thomas & Stereo lets not speculate here...🙊
@byronb.4 жыл бұрын
Innuos again? One of the most controversial & overpriced items in the HiFi industry. The one exception is the pricing of the two Roon Nucleus music servers. [ See KZfaq Video: "Debunking the music server, streamer, end point, bridge, renderer etc Part #1"] I still recommend building an Intel NUC Roon ROCK music server for the DYI people or buying a Small Green Computer [SONICTRANSPORTER I5] music server. The entry level ZEN MINI MK3 1TB is also a better buy.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Yeah, they have offered me to review the Zen Mini.
@midorihibiki4 жыл бұрын
@ Bryon B. Roon Nucleus music servers are just Nuc systems. Roon buy them and modified them and install Roon Rock on them. They admit it on their website and I think they're overpriced too if you compare them to Innuos music server but whatever they do sound good that's the matter. If you could make your own computers sound good as them then you can sell as high as they do.
@ethan80234 жыл бұрын
I have to say you must have a terrible DAC. This product will improve the sound more noticeable when you connect it to a low price DAC which is designed 2-3 years ago.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I had a few, Ares2, Musical Paradise, Topping D90, SMSL 400 and the list goes on but I decided to use the Gustard.
@ethan80234 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereoDid you try D90 with Innuos? I heard D90 has very well designed USB input, so I doubt Innuos can improve anything noticeable.
@1crenshaw4884 жыл бұрын
are you gonna answer my ?
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
I thought I did. I have so many questions everyday that I don't remember which one. I remember telling you the problem with Titan, check out Focal and b&w. KZfaq does not always notify me all the messages
@1crenshaw4884 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo Thank You
@1crenshaw4884 жыл бұрын
So what do you think if I go with the Kanta 3, I have two parasound a21+ but only thing these speakers are no bi-amping so I would have to mono block them, solidstate. at 1000watts and they only take 300watts, what to do as I have all this power, it looks like i wasted money. would these give me sonic sounds or that does not matter. Please respond as i am about to spend more money on the focals.
@Smood474 жыл бұрын
Network player with CD reader? Facepalm. Just get a dcs bridge, audiobyte, wavelight or aries g2 and leave this CD trash behind.
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Well some songs we love are not available for streaming. Especially a lot of the chinese songs I listen to.
@Smood474 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo Rip your entire collection then toss the CDs or sell w/e. Good to go.
@flormanjr4 жыл бұрын
"one of the best music server" This is gramatically wrong! The correct way to say it is: "ONE OF THE BEST MUSIC SERVERS" Explanation: what you mean to say is one of the MANY. The way you say it is "one of the one" please don't forget to add "s" to the many items you are referring to. You have one of the pair of earS I trust most among KZfaq audio reviewers
@ThomasAndStereo4 жыл бұрын
Thanks and please also do help me correct in the future, I will correct it shortly. Appreciate it.
@flormanjr4 жыл бұрын
@@ThomasAndStereo I am gratified to see the correction! Needless to say it also applies to conversations.
@mariocassar31174 жыл бұрын
Thomas, just an update on the ZEN. After about 300 hours of use, the unit opened up, and on AB comparison I cannot notice any difference between the CD and the WAV ripped discs on the Innuos.👍