EMM Labs NS1

[Ron Resnick]

Who is using the EMM Labs NS1 streamer?

How does it compare sonically to an Innuos?

 

[JohnZ100]

Who is using the EMM Labs NS1 streamer?

How does it compare sonically to an Innuos?

I am beyond happy with my NS1

 

[darkstar_xiii]

Who is using the EMM Labs NS1 streamer?

How does it compare sonically to an Innuos?

Ron: I have an Innuos Zenith Mk3 and NS1 Streamer.

In my system, to my ears, the differences are reasonably subtle. The Innuos, running the Sense server and player software, has a slightly more forward presentation. The Innuos was connected to my EMM DV2 DAC via USB.

The NS1, which was being used to Stream from a Roon core, is a bit laid back (in a good way) and has more of what I would describe as a pleasing ambient energy. I also prefer the tone of voices on the NS1 as compared to the Innuos. The sound of the NS1 via proprietary EMM optical connection and AES/EBU were very similar.

Ultimately, I configured the NS1 as a UPnP streamer for the Zenith because I like the Sense app more than Roon. I have approx. 1.5 TB of music on the Zenith and another 5 TB on a NAS. I prefer the sound from the combined Zenith and NS1 over the devices individually.

Keep in mind that this is a purely subjective opinion and I did not level match or control for other variables--so take my opinion with a grain of salt.

 

[JohnZ100]

I’m using it with my DA2 and the optic link. Very happy with it. Compared to AES the differences were subtle with overall a little more ambience with the optic link.

 

[Ian B]

Who is using the EMM Labs NS1 streamer?

How does it compare sonically to an Innuos?

I own one (and am selling it to reduce boxes). I personally found it quite superior to the the Innuos Zenith Mk 3+Phoenix. However, these are also different connections. I used Innuos USB and ethernet, and NS1 optilink and AES. With EMM Labs DACs the Aural Symphonics Optimism cable is the best connection, but I was pleasantly surprised with AES which was excellent.

I also found that the SQ using an attached USB drive for stored files was better than Zenith+NS1.

 

[darkstar_xiii]

I own one (and am selling it to reduce boxes). I personally found it quite superior to the the Innuos Zenith Mk 3+Phoenix. However, these are also different connections. I used Innuos USB and ethernet, and NS1 optilink and AES. With EMM Labs DACs the Aural Symphonics Optimism cable is the best connection, but I was pleasantly surprised with AES which was excellent.

I also found that the SQ using an attached USB drive for stored files was better than Zenith+NS1.

Hi @Ian B

That last part about attached storage is interesting. What kind of drive are you using (SSD or spinning disk) and what Player software are you using?

Thanks,

Jason

 

[Ian B]

I'm using an SSD (Western Digital), and I use MConnect. That said, I also clean up the USB line with a Shunyata Omega USB, iFi iGalvanic 3.0 and iFi Silencer+.

I don't need a fancy graphical interface and I organized my music in folders. I also have Qobuz, but don't use it much.

 

[louawalters]

Does anyone know what type of fiber cable is used for the Optilink? I.E Single Mode or Multi-mode? I know the connection is ST glass.

Thanks