Best Streamers Under $1000

When it comes to streaming devices or streamers under $1000, you're looking for high-quality audio streaming from a variety of sources, whether it's Hi-Res Audio, Tidal, Spotify, Apple Music, or your local library. These streamers often come with built-in DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters) and other features to deliver exceptional sound quality to your Hi-Fi setup.

Here’s a curated list of the best streaming devices under $1000:

1. Bluesound Node (2021)

• Price: Around $550

• Best For: People who want a high-quality, feature-rich streaming solution at a reasonable price.

• Key Features:

  • Supports High-Resolution Audio (up to 24-bit/192kHz) including MQA for Tidal Masters.

  • Built-in high-quality DAC with great sound clarity.

  • Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet support for versatile streaming options.

  • AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Apple Music integration.

  • Roon Ready for audiophiles using Roon for music management.

  • Multi-room capability with other Bluesound devices.

  • Simple app interface with a modern design.

2. Cambridge Audio CXN (V2)

• Price: Around $900

• Best For: Audiophiles looking for an audiophile-grade streamer with rich features and great sound.

• Key Features:

  • Supports 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res Audio streaming, including Apple Lossless.

  • Dual Wolfson DACs for improved sound performance and ultra-low distortion.

  • Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, and Apple AirPlay 2 support.

  • Roon Ready for full integration with a high-end music library management system.

  • Network capability for streaming over Ethernet and Wi-Fi.

  • OLED screen for easy browsing of albums, playlists, and tracks.

  • High-quality build and premium materials, typical of Cambridge Audio.

3. NAD C 658

• Price: Around $999

• Best For: Users looking for a combination of streamer, DAC, and preamp all-in-one.

• Key Features:

  • High-quality ESS Sabre DAC for superior audio quality.

  • BluOS streaming platform for access to Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, and more.

  • AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth aptX HD for wireless streaming.

  • Roon Ready and MQA support for audiophile-grade sound.

  • Integrated preamp section with both analog and digital outputs.

  • Phono input for vinyl lovers.

  • Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity for seamless streaming.

4. Lumin D2 Network Streamer

• Price: Around $950

• Best For: Audiophiles who want a streamer with minimalist design and high-quality sound.

• Key Features:

  • Up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD512 support for high-end audio.

  • ESS Sabre 9038Q2M DAC for clear, dynamic sound.

  • Roon Ready and Tidal Connect support.

  • Apple AirPlay and Spotify Connect for easy streaming.

  • Integrated web interface for easy setup and control from a mobile or desktop.

  • Compact, elegant design that fits in most setups.

5. Auralic Aries G1

• Price: Around $950

• Best For: Those seeking a premium streaming experience with advanced features.

• Key Features:

  • Supports up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD512 for audiophile-grade resolution.

  • Tesla Platform for optimized audio performance.

  • Built-in DAC support with the ability to add external DACs.

  • Roon Ready for full audiophile system integration.

  • Wi-Fi, Ethernet, and Bluetooth for flexible connection options.

  • Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, and Apple AirPlay 2 integration.

  • Roon Ready and MQA support for Hi-Res Audio streaming.

6. Aurender N100H

• Price: Around $999 (sometimes on sale for a little less)

• Best For: Audiophiles who need local storage for their music library while streaming.

• Key Features:

  • High-end 2TB internal hard drive to store your local music library.

  • Up to 24-bit/192kHz audio support with MQA decoding.

  • Built-in high-quality DAC for premium sound output.

  • Roon Ready and streaming support for Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify, etc.

  • Offline streaming with stored music, ideal for users who prefer having their own library.

  • Excellent build quality and elegant design.\

7. PS Audio PerfectWave Streaming DAC

• Price: Around $999 (sometimes on sale for less)

• Best For: Those who want a streamer and DAC in one with high-end performance.

• Key Features:

  • DSD and PCM support, with up to 24-bit/192kHz resolution.

  • Built-in DAC with exceptional sound quality.

  • Supports MQA, Tidal, Spotify, and Apple AirPlay.

  • Roon Ready integration for audiophiles.

  • Ethernet and Wi-Fi streaming support.

  • Customizable sound with easy-to-use controls.

8. Pro-Ject Stream Box S2 Ultra

• Price: Around $700

• Best For: Those looking for a high-quality streaming solution with a compact design.

• Key Features:

  • Supports up to 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res Audio.

  • Roon Ready, Tidal, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, and Apple AirPlay 2 support.

  • MQA decoding for Hi-Res streaming from Tidal Masters.

  • High-quality DAC and analog outputs for excellent sound quality.

  • Wi-Fi and Ethernet support for flexible streaming options.

  • Compact design with a solid build quality.

9. Sonos Port

• Price: Around $449

• Best For: Those looking for an affordable, easy-to-integrate solution with multi-room capability.

• Key Features:

  • Roon Ready and Spotify Connect integration.

  • Supports Tidal, Apple Music, Qobuz, and more.

  • AirPlay 2 support for seamless Apple streaming.

  • Line-level output to integrate with your existing Hi-Fi system.

  • Wi-Fi or Ethernet connection for reliable streaming.

  • Multi-room audio support with other Sonos speakers for a wireless home setup.

10. Yamaha WXC-50

• Price: Around $500

• Best For: Users who want a compact, feature-packed streaming preamp with great sound.

• Key Features:

  • Supports 24-bit/192kHz Hi-Res Audio via USB, optical, and coaxial inputs.

  • AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal support.

  • Bluetooth aptX for high-quality wireless streaming.

  • Roon Ready for audiophile-grade library management.

  • Built-in DAC for great sound output.

  • Excellent build quality with a compact footprint.

Key Features to Look for in a Streaming Device:

• Resolution Support: Look for devices that support 24-bit/192kHz or higher to ensure you can stream high-resolution audio.

• Streaming Services Compatibility: Ensure the device supports popular services like Tidal, Spotify, Qobuz, Apple Music, and others you may use.

• Roon Ready: If you're an audiophile, having Roon Ready compatibility allows you to integrate seamlessly with a high-end audio management system.

• DAC Quality: For superior sound, a device with an integrated high-quality DAC ensures better audio clarity and less distortion.

• Multi-Room Audio Support: If you plan on expanding your system, make sure the streamer supports multi-room audio.

• Connectivity Options: Ensure the streamer supports Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and AirPlay for maximum flexibility.

Conclusion:

For a premium streaming experience under $1000, options like the Bluesound Node and Cambridge Audio CXN V2 offer excellent performance with advanced features and great sound quality. If you're seeking high-end performance with features like Roon Ready and MQA support, the NAD C 658 and Lumin D2 are fantastic choices. Meanwhile, Sonos Port and Yamaha WXC-50 provide affordable and easy-to-use solutions with multi-room capability.

Let me know if you’d like more info on any specific model!