[bagwell359]

I came across these looking for a streamer under $500. The MXN10 ($499) has a small form factor, The AXN10 is larger, and $599, and a limited run. Said to be exactly the same internally.

Lots of good press, but that's to be taken with a grain. I dislike that it doesn't have USB, only Coax and an optical out to go with the analog out from the Sabre chip in it. I'm looking for people that have lived with it. I got burnt out trying to get the iFi Zen Streamer to work with WiFi, or work at all. Want to use a product not in Alpha or Beta test. Some of the other choices in that price range also seem to have issues.

 

[bagwell359]

OK, lots of good user reviews, just bought it, report later on.

 

[bagwell359]

Here it is. $399 for “open box” that was not opened. Will take a few weeks to evaluate, meanwhile here are some pics.

 

[bagwell359]

Had this unit up and running inside of 10 minutes via WiFi @ 35’ away in stark contrast the “zen” iFi streamer (is it still in perma-beta land?).

Hasn’t burped once with Qobuz and Tidal Hi-Res. I like StreamMagic as well. But iOS is Mickey Mouse compared to Android based on prior experience so my IPhone is going to go to “Back market” for a Galaxy.

Haven’t tested it hard wired but I will. Sound seems good. Better than my friends Bluesound Node which seemed blunted. Doesn’t seem better the my old LG v40 as a streamer.

Does not have a USB input, and isn’t balanced out. Has a DAC in it that has RCA outs. Will be some time before I get to that. Can’t tell you how it stacks up against units costing double or more, just know that for now I’m out of the market.

 

[bagwell359]

Continues to work well. Maybe a bit more air in the treble hard wired. But could be expectation bias.

The way it handles dynamic contrasts while keeping its powder dry (no compression, Increase in IM or treble spikes) is really impressive.

If you are looking for one for under $700 look into it.

 

[bagwell359]

It is more sonically composed than the streamer in the LG V40. It never disconnects. Doesn’t need any babying. A capable appliance at a good price.

The DAC is standard Sabre. Not exciting and no match for my preference - Gumby A1.