Bloom's Take The iFi NEO Stream takes the functionality of iFi's popular ZEN Stream to the next level. It features a streamlined setup process and improved stability, along with a built-in DAC for greater flexibility. NEO Stream provides a powerful tool for music streaming at a cost previously unattainable without spending more than its $1,299 price tag. |
The latest device to join iFi’s mid-level NEO Series is a music streamer/DAC that delivers class-leading versatility and performance. Whether it be from online services or personal locally stored files, digital streaming is now the primary method by which music is consumed. Since there are various ways to invite network music streaming into one’s home, building a system from well-chosen components will achieve the best sound quality.
The NEO Stream is different from other music streamers on the market thanks to its clean-sheet design and proprietary tech. It removes many of the technical limitations from competitor products and is the ideal streamer for music lovers who want to access their music through their choice of app or music platform.
The Stream is the second device (the 1st being the NEO iDSD) to join the NEO Series sitting between the ZEN Series and PRO Series. The NEO iDSD remains current, and while it may be tempting to assume the NEO Stream is a NEO iDSD with a streaming module and headphone amp removed, this would not be accurate. While visually similar, this is a new kind of music streamer!
There are multiple ways in which the NEO Stream can interface with online streaming services or music stored on your local network, with more to come:
The NEO Stream’s integral DAC stage takes your streaming enjoyment to another level.
Thanks to this new DAC design, PCM and DSD take separate pathways and remain bit-perfect in their direct, native form through to analog conversion. For DSD, there is no conversion to PCM or application of multi-bit processing.
For hard-wire networking instead of WiFi, the NEO Stream includes a unique option alongside its RJ45 and M12 ports: iFi's proprietary optical LAN. Connect the OptiBox transceiver (included) to the router and the NEO Stream to the OptiBox via optical cable (included.)
Benefit from the highest quality digital audio connection possible between the router and streamer:
The NEO Stream has been engineered to remove noise and distortion from the audio signal:
Several settings allow users to tailor the NEO Stream’s performance to suit their systems and streaming preference with unique settings for Roon, Tidal Masters, DLNA and NAA, and general use. Four user-selectable digital filters can be switched according to personal taste and music choice:
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