I have done a lot of searches and read a lot of threads here the past few weeks. Too much time inside in midwest winter.
Fairly new DS Sr owner.
Added a Bridge II as an initial step for a streaming unit.
Simple setup. Windows PC>Router>Cat 6 run to wall ethernet jack>Bridge II input of DS.
I use Jriver and like that overall.
Using decent Cat 8 cable suggested here from wall ethernet jack to the Bridge II input.
It sounds very good. They say ignorance is bliss, but with Covid and winter I read too much stuff here.
Tried a etherRegen with a very good Pardo LPS. Did not experience any significant uptick in SQ really in my situation at least.
Question- Is there any general consensus about a Bridge II alternative upgrade for network streaming? Prefer a one box unit, or simple solution. Have to admit the streamline solution of the Bridge II is hard to argue with. Not getting any ticks or pops in playing DSD files in Jriver. It is a little buggy in song transitions.
Budget used is modest. Prefer under $1500. Actually south of $1000 even better.
Of note- I am trying a Matrix also with a path of Windows laptop>USB>Matrix> i2S input.
Matrix does sound slightly better in some ways than the Bridge II. Maybe a little more wet, weighty, or analog. Playing around with none or different power supplies on that.
Thanks for any input. Enjoying the forum community here. Listening to more music than ever which is what this is all about in the end.