Started streaming with the Airlens and I like what I hear. Using it with my Directstream Mk2, connected with I2s cable (AudioQuest Firebird48). My ethernet cable is an AudioQuest Vodka.
In a few weeks I will get a in house demo of a Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro switch, just to see if there is a SQ improvement.
@Peter_B How is that Air Lens treating you by now? I’m keen to try one out soon in a smaller system.
Does it seem like it scales with better ethernet cables? I have an AQ Vodka as well, my stopgap Wiim Ultra doesn’t really benefit much from it.
The demo of the Matrix Audio SS-1 Pro switch was very nice and buying this device was a no-brainer. I’m very pleased with my current streaming system!
Has anyone compared the AirLens to a Bricasti M5 streamer? If so, what did you conclude as far as sound reproduction mainly as the M5 lacks I2S connectivity..Thanx for your inputs, Mooncrikit
Also, I previously had the Eversolo DMP A6, GEN 2 Master Edition and the Bricasti M5 absolutely crushed it in all aspects of sound reproduction, operational connectivity meaning it always worked perfectly with no hiccups and its unsurpassed build quality we ‘philes yearn for… but lost out to the vast functionality of the A6. I ask as I am getting that ‘itch’ again and this Airlense intrigues me…
I took the Bricasti M5 for an audition and a head-to-head comparison with the AirLense. I connected both via a coaxial cable to the DS. The M5 was slightly darker and tighter in the bass, but somewhat monotonous in timbre across different tracks compared to the AirLense. The Lense delivered more emotion and nuanced timbres and the musicians were in a good mood while performing)) But connecting the AirLense via HDMI in my system left the Bricasti M5 no chance.
P.S. My friend had similar impressions, who also compared the M5 with the AirLense.