I am done to the two final choices: Lumin U2 vs Aurender N20. Both are one-box solutions with their own app. since I do not use Roon.
The N20 costs more than double that of U2, but U2 has the newest technology. It has a dedicated USB output plus a fiber optical input. I am waiting for a review of U2 that compares with the big boy.
I am in no hurry since streamers have more room to grow, and it may not make sense to spend a big sum and 
find out later a newer and cheaper one is better.
That’s a big reason I’m staying in the shallow end of the pool for this stuff, for the moment. The technology trickle down is moving too fast for me.
One of the reasons I bought a DAC with a built-in bridge.
I think we should start a Directstream MKIII topic.
I am still sitting on the streamer fence as well. I like the Aurender N20 as well with great build quality and lowering noise with a good power supply and internal clock. Their Conductor app looks fine to me. No rush.
Unfortunately, it’s not like that’s slowing down the pace. As always, as long as you’re happy with your choices, it’s no big deal. Otherwise, there’s always an upgrade path. In the meantime: enjoy!
My point was for me was to eliminate the steamer. One less thing to chase.
Indeed a legit choice for ease of mind and a rig with fewer boxes!
That’s it. I think all the fiddly bits was making me anxious. Too many things to tweak.
gosh - that speaker looks a lot like my old Dahlquist DQ-10! What is it? That took me back to the 1980s in a flash!
You’ll never look back and have zero regret with the N20. You may have to dust off the PST more frequently!
Since your super power is combing the internet for all that is good in audio, find me an N20 that is really cheap. Passed on one for $8,500, so you know what your up against.
I might add…it was black. GLWYS.
The lowest known resale I can find is $8000.
I looked on the Audiogon Bluebook, and there’s no recorded sale on their site.
Happy hunting!
Correct. It is currently listed on Audiogon.
$8K for a current product that lists retail for $12.5K is reasonable. What’s your target price?
Haha, I was looking hard at the silver N20. The seller had no transaction nor feedback for the past two years. It is not there anymore, and I thought you bought it.
My target is to be at list, AFTER you include another Dragon pc and Upper end USB. Total package dude.
So, $7K-ish for the N20?
If so, based on what I see in past sales over the last year, you might get it for yourself for Christmas.
A new rack and another Dragon PC have satisfied my thirst enough for the time being. The new streamer can wait since my Euphony Summus2 is sounding better than a couple of weeks ago already.
Luckily, my rabbit hole is not as deep as Vince and Luca’s, I am quite happy with the MK2, and I do not feel any need to replace it anytime soon. 