RoPieeeXL with the Allo Digione feeding a Naim Dac via BNC from Roon or Spotify. (you need the XL version to provide DLNA,Airplay and Spotify Connect) I was previously using dietpi which gives you the ability to install a wide range of software (inc. Roonbridge and Spotify Connect) and this OS is preferable if you want to do more with the Pi than simply using it as an audio endpoint (for example, to run Pihole). I also have a Pi with hifiberry AMP+ installed inside an old valve radio which acts as a wireless Roon/Spotify endpoint with simple internet radio streaming via a re-purposed remote control. Makes for a nice low-fi kitchen playback device.
As an advanced user with extensive hands on time and personal everyday use I will break down my personal favorite operating systems, also before covering any operating system details I have always use ETCHER to "Burn" the os image to micro sd. Raspberry pi 3 B+: For movie and tv streaming (including internet archive gaming / rom's) I always use LebreElec "just enough os for KODI" once Kodi is installed there are a plethora of repo's out that will satisfy most of your audio & visual needs (My two favorite Kodi addons would be CCloud for TV and Exodus for TV and Movies on demand). LebreElec has been running on my Pi 3 B+ for about 4 months now without any issues and performs great both using Ethernet and or WiFi, I would suggest using a decent "AIR MOUSE remote" with keypad on back fir an enjoyable user experience. Raspberry Pi Zero W: Not so great as a tv streaming device as it lacks the physical computing power of its larger brothers or sisters (Pi 2,3,4's) etc, but works well for game rom emulation using (RETRO PI Os) and plays most game consoles up to and including SNES very well (in retro pi I have found that (snes9x 2002) for snes rom emulation works best at the moment and I have not experienced any game breaking performance issues. Octo print "os" is also a very handy os for raspberry pi if your into 3d printing and want remote control, remote video streaming of prints, and wireless upload of gcode to you 3d printer (Please cross reference your 3d printer, firmware, etc before hand for compatibility)
Volumio (AirPlay, NAS, works with my Smart Home Hub [Home Assistant]). I will try another Pi with HifiBerry OS and Room Correction with the HifiBerry DAC+ DSP.
John, it is great when you explain and break down issues for those of us who are eager to learn more. Your beginner’s guide to DACs was fantastic. Please keep them coming sir. Brilliant work.
Errors in digital transmission do exist. They can result in dropouts. A metallic sound can be the result of configuration. The software mixer may mix in some other channels that should be switched off. Jitter or dropouts sound so bad that you would know, there is something very wrong in the connection or transmission. "Sounds a bit smoother than USB" is hard to digest. If you use software to do volume control then you can compromise the quality if you use a smaller part of your 16 or 24 bit resolution and therefore loosing headroom. The USB interface can send the volume as a parameter, but toslink can't. So if you want your phone or other device to control the volume then USB actually "sounds better". If you are just interested in playback and don't do further processing the just stick with 44.1 or 48kHz and 16 bits. No person passed a double blinded test to favour anything higher than CD quality.
For me it’s not about HEARING a difference between bit rates but rather about making sure that my equipment doesn’t fold it down to a lower bit rate. I’m just trying to keep my streams consistent, I’m more worried about a balanced signal now lol
Great comparisons. Would love to see comparisons at the even higher end too, to see how it stands up. IE Mytek Brooklyn Bridge or Auralic Altair vs Allo digi one + a higher end dac. Is there a point where the raspberry pi stops being scaleable to higher end hifi systems? All good hypothetical questions i think.
@@mml8006 Nice video, I have been using Volumio on Raspberry Pi's for many years and have now arrived at the Allo Piano 2.1 plus Allo Kali, which is the best I have had so far. Please note that high end companies like Bryston use Raspberry Pi's in their new BDA-3.14 streamer that have exceptional quality at an exceptional price (approx eur 5.000), thats how scaleable the Raspberry Pi is.
Squeeze Ctrl is the best android app for squeezebox. I use a pi with HiFiBerry Digi+ Pro (blows the DigiOne away IMO). Then i also use a screen with touchscreen to mimic the sb touch and its awesome. Full 24 bit 192k hi res.
Hi John, Loving the channel do you have any videos on the new Raspberry Pi 4? I want to create a DAC and would prefer to purchase 4 verses the 3 model.
This video convinced me to put together a Raspberry Pi and Allo Digi 1. I love the sound quality it provides but I also loved the DIY/tinkering to get it up and running, way more fun than just a plug and play box. Thanks John!
Since there doesn't seem to be a consensus on which OS sounds best I went with the one that was easiest to install/use = piCorePlayer + Orange Squeeze. The fact that I was already very familiar with the LMS ecosystem made it even easier (for me). BTW - Do you know if there is a metal case for DigiOne Signature yet?
I do not want to subscribe to Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect ect,. I want to tune into Free internet... How to, please... www.accuradio.com/classical/?name=Period:%20Classical&b0=Classical
John, let me congrat for the super informative feat you did. Very informative, unbiased, crystal clear. I think your contribution is very beneficial for the HiFi community as a whole. I remember when I started RaspyFi in 2013 (the predecessor to Volumio). I was the first to see in the PI some potential for audio and the first to create an ad-hoc distro for it (showoff mode off). So many people laughed at me, back then. Many said that the PI was just a toy, and Hi-Fi needed much more serious and beefy equipment. Some years later, it's great to see how this little toy is making HiFi a little bit funnier and a little bit more democratic. As they say, time is a gentleman.
Hi John, did I get right that RPi->DigioOne HAT-> SPDIF to DAC sounds better than RPi->Usb to DAC? Or does that depend on SPDIF/USB input receivers quality in DAC? Thanks
I never thought that a digital source that feeds a dac could alter the sound. I don't want to be that guy that says that it's not possible and that has to convince the whole mankind that he is right, but how is it possible? My dac has a feature where you play a particular file from your source, and in the menu of the dac you enable a function that analyzes the bitstream that it receives and if there's something that tampers the data (like the standard windows audio driver) it tells you, while if everything is set up properly it shows you that you are in bitperfect. How can there be something that alters the music without changing the bitstream? Maybe some kind of analog noise signal that passes trough usb or coaxial? But it shouldn't be the case with optical cables. Am I wrong?
99% of the video content that you've done on streaming and DACs is about the hardware, so that makes sense. Please spend more time on the software component, and more than just Roon. Thanks
JLS7288 Definitely agree. I can’t get myself to pull the trigger on Roon because of the cost, despite loving the feature set. Plex has some new integration with Tidal that I’ve been playing with. Would love to see an “alternatives to Roon” video.
JLS7288 Panjin79 I agree. I am thinking of getting a NAD M10 BlueOS compatible amp in my main listening room but would like a RaspberryPi streaming setup in my second room and was wondering if a Raspberry Pi could be configured to work with BlueOS software for streaming?
Another nice video John. But many of us probably don't have network cable running to all our endpoints and therefore need WiFi in these applications and you didn't touch on how to go about that. Please!
First computer I built ( when the world was young) I had read somewhere that the best way to ground yourself was to stand in bare feet during the build. It took me all night standing on bare feet on a cold stone kitchen floor to complete the PC. Coincidentally or not I got a grotty chest infection and had to take a week off work. If I ever find out who put that egregious piece of crap advice on the internet we will have words. Course I was stupid, or naive, enough to believe it.
Great you’re spreading the word on this John, I’ve been using Rpie streaming for a while now, it’s fantastic. The best I’ve heard for pure sound quality is the Allo USbridge Signature running Moode operating system, controlling it for Quobuz and local streaming with MconnectHD on my iPad. Amazing value for money.
I loved this video and definitely will be getting a pi soon as I need another project.... was wondering if you were familiar with a software called Peppymeter? It takes signal and puts it on an analog vu meter on a screen.... was wondering if the building process was the same as far as downloading onto disc and maybe do a video on it as you really know your stuff.... anyways, just subscribed and thanks again for the info
I love this video and appreciate knowing that the streaming process can be simplified and done at low cost. However, for me, the Roon Nucleus is a better path for me since the cost aspect is not a big factor and I much rather spend my time exploring and discovering music than fiddling with tech components. If I was 25 rather than 70, I might go for this. lol.
Hey there John, I just wanted to tell you how bloody marvellous that was and to thank you for giving me so much more to think about in my current quest to find a new digital transport to replace my ageing Sonos system (especially now that they’ve screwed over their oldest and most loyal customers - but hey, let’s not go there!). I also wanted to say how pleased I am that I just stumbled on your RUclips channel - it’s soooooo, refreshing to hear straight talking, down to Earth, honest (and well informed) opinions, without all that "What’s up RUclips" overhyped b@llocks that so many RUclipsr’s seem to think is a prerequisite for a modern, successful channel! And to get unadulterated, clearly explained opinions on quality audio without the cringe-worthy nonsense that often accompanies some people’s ‘audiophile’ opinions is even more refreshing - You may even help to make the term ‘audiophile’ less scoffed as pretentious twoddle, and help us mere mortals understand what it really is / or should be. Well done you 👍👏
There are other brands and flavors of single board computers, but RPi has the biggest development community and widest variety of applications and peripheral hardware.
I use the Pi as a NAS to store the music and via LAN its streaming on my streamer. Os is openmediavault and minidlna plugin and works great with hi-ficast app.
Man, really? If you know he made a mistake, why can’t you just politely comment the correction? Why do you have to ask it as a rhetorical question complete with caps lock? You sound pretentious as fuck.
Have you pulled the brown paper bag like protective sticker of your Digione Signature yet? I’ve been rocking the Digione Signature after your review. It can be rather complicated setting it up if you aren’t in to software burning. I started with dietpi, tried Max2Play and then settled on Volumio. I have noticed that the sound quality on an attached USB drive plays better than the airplay option. I did notice it was cleaner than the MacBook Pro. The noise which I couldn’t hear was gone once I heard the same music via the Digione Signature. Funny how I didn’t notice the noise till I heard something cleaner 😁
I own a Pi 3b with the Allo Boss DAC you show here. It's OUTSTANDING. I actually like the acrylic case for the Pi & Boss DAC because it's clear, which makes it a conversation piece rather than just another piece of gear, especially since my Pi does lots of other things.
Even though I am inclined to believe differences in the quality of a digital signal should not matter, I did find the video useful. I’m looking at what to buy. I have a NAS with about 3500 tracks. I use Spotify as well but I’m leaning towards looking to both Apple music (because it integrates better into my Apple ecosystem) or Tidal or Qobuz for the quality. I don’t see myself paying a subscription or even 700 dollars for something like Roon. I sometimes think I still want physical media. I no longer have CDs but lately I’ve been thinking of getting an old Philips CD304 II that is built like a tank. It has a coax output. I have good speakers and a power amp (a preamp too but that’s all analog). The question is, what do I put in the middle. I’m a software engineer so would have no problems setting up a Pi, but I don’t want to have to run updates all the time myself. Plus I am looking for, say, a stylish solution. I was thinking of the NAD AMP1, NAD C658 (but that’s expensive), Bluesound Node 2 or 2i, Yamaha WXC-50 or Yamaha R-N803D. The reason for looking at Yamaha is that audiosciencereview.com seem to indicate they have excellent measured performance, which should at least guarantee that the designers have done their homework. But the app is important too.
Imagine what is was like in the days when you could build better speaker cabinets than you could buy, or could swap out the cheaper parts in your receivers and amps to provide more headroom and less harmonic distortion.
plese don't use the DAC inside PIs, get your signal out through USB or HDMI and use a dedicated DAC or another device to convert it to analog. You will be amazed of the results :). P.S my setup is: RPi->hdmi->TV->optical audio out->Yamaha A-S501(using DAC inside)->Wharfedale Diamond 230
Good video. Just for comparison, I bought a Yamaha WXAD10 about a week ago for £125 and it’s pretty good. No digital out though. It does Airplay, bluetooth, all the main streaming sites etc. It sounds good but can be a bit flakey with WiFi and the app occasionally, but not enough to get really annoying (yet). I think it’s pretty good value, all in all. There’s a Burr Brown chip in there so it’s not an audio slouch.
really enjoy your videos. I use the Node 2i in my main room and most of the house because it's user-friendly for the whole family and I think it sounds great. I think this RPie version would be great for non-wired locations like a remote family room, the garage or even outside via wifi. Was considering a new (Schitt?) DAC for the Node but not sure I'll gain much for the added cost and complexity. Have the Schitt Mulibit in my office on a macbook and love it.
Rpi 3, hifiberry digi+, schiit Modi, volumio. Though pretty annoyed by volumio even with subscription to have tidal. Volumio keep on loosing tidal. Mostly moved now to Chromecast audio and schiit Modi 2.
What would you recomend between a Boss DAC alone vs DigiHat + Modi 3? Is there a big difference or would it be cheaper/simpler to just do the Boss DAC? Thanks!
Ropiee it's also compatible with Audioquest cobalt USB DAC? Because I din't see the audioquest DAC on Hardware compatibility list of ropiee, but also used like roon endpoint?
John, as someone who is Raspberry Pi curious but was somewhat mystified by the platform, you have provided an exceptionally well thought out explanation of this very interesting corner of audio. I always thought you had to be a "computer guy" to use these, which I am not. I may still give it a shot though as a bit of a challenge for myself. When it comes to digital audio, you are my go-to guy.
Thanks mate I was really confused but now I am less confused. Great channel. Question. Do you put door stops on your small units just so the cables don't drag it off the top?
I wonder if you could prove a difference in the digital signal if you had access to an oscilloscope. You could compare the shape and voltage of the "square" waves. Edit: just watched your Saturday vid and realized "we don't do measurements", so nvm.
Love the video! Basic tablets are pretty inexpensive - would it be possible to use one as a media streamer? With a USB, you could plug in a DAC, right? Then you could keep it propped up on a stand and you could just press buttons to play music whenever.
Raspberry Pi is also great for playing offline music. My configuration is the following: 1. Raspberry Pi, 2. Raspbian, 3. Java 8, 4. 2 Tb drive, 5. TJWS, 6. MusicBarrel, 7. Receiver and enjoy.
Thanks, great channel, I've subbed. I'm just getting into audio, and devouring (selectively) YT vids. My big question is: Are the vast majority of audiophiles men? It seems that way from YT, and I know my wife has a hatred of my loud music. Assuming it was the quality she didn't like I went on Amazon and spent some money, and now she likes my music less. Is this normal?
QUESTION: If I want to stream music from Tidal, for example, do I connect the RJ45 port directly to my router/modem for the streaming? And then do I use my phone relentlessly to my router (same router) and that will allow me to manage the Pi streamer? On this video, I missed how the Pi gets connected to the incoming modem/router stream.
All the Raspberry Pi OSes use Linux. Linux has superb upscaling abilities but you need to edit your ALSA or PULSE config files. I play all my music through an old laptop running Linux and I have the output set to 24bit 192 Khz (which I feed into a Cambridge Audio DAC Magic). The Linux OS does a better job of upscaling than any DAC I have heard - so whatever USB DAC you have you can run it with the highest quality digital input it can handle. Hence all my DAC is doing is converting to analog - the processing is all done on the Laptop as well as managing the playlist (I don't use internet streaming services). The audio processing abilities of Linux seem to be a well kept secret but they far outperform Windows or MacOS. Worth a look maybe
I just use an old Pentium laptop as a 'media center', with terabyte usb storage. I long ago ripped all my CD's to FLAC. Such lowball laptops are still available new for say $250. It runs Windows 10, but a bit laggy. Sure a Pi and extras are less, but come on, $100 bucks saved, so what? Placed at my listening location, with a wireless mouse to do most functions. Dragonfly DAC, but will probably upgrade. So no, I don't have phone app to control it. No biggie. Don't need it. My problem, such as it is, is that the DAC out is connected to my NAD amp with a 25' RCA cable. Surely not the best thing. HDMI out goes straight to the TV. (well sort of but never mind) When it's time to listen to headphones, just plug them into the DAC. Streams Netflix. Streams Tidal. Streams freaking RUclips. Streams all my files.
Digital over USB? From my years of experience working with digital if there are no errors in the transmission of the "0" and "1" you are golden. That being said USB has always been a resource hog... Out of curiosity I attached my Audio interface that I use for recording, (relatively new) to the Raspberry Pi 4. Maybe the Raspberry Pi 4 hardware has better USB it seemed to sound about as cloce to what I was mixing on the big workstation using the same amp speaker (near field monitors). Though the DAW software was struggling on playback using 32bit float at what ever sample rate I was using at the time when i recorded the song, the rendered results played fine on media Player VLC 16bit wave and MP3. this was using both the USB 2 and USB 3 ports on different tryouts. Yes there is the typical click and pop changing playback software that I get with this interface when using ALSA when I'm using "JACK connection kit" on the workstation there is no odd clicks and pops under Linux. it also draws its power from the USB port too. I could see my self using this in the field one day with a battery pack and portable screen. Ps. the latency was low-enough to record harmonising backing vocals... Though I would never use this set up permanently It was just to find out how well it works... The digital from the HDMI is very clean, dynamic and musical through one of my playback DACs
Nice, but why not using the HDMI output for digital audio? It is already there, without limitations like S/PDIF via Cinch or TOSLink, high bitrate, and standard for modern digital amplifiers.
Been having a lot of fun with Raspberry Pi and streaming. Ended up making a Server and Player setup loosely based on the Squeezebox/LMS setup. The server is using a 8Gb Pi4 and a SSD. The player is using a Pi Zero W. Ended up rolling my own software combination So the server can have it’s Music can be uploaded from the network or downloaded from the server. The LMS setup is quite a bit better than the Slimp3 days. The real revelation was using the Pi Zero as the playback via USB using a mostly competent DAC by FX-Audio the plan was to get a digital output card for the Zero in the end it did not need it, Just my Scottish self not spending money I do not need to spend! While testing I ended up trying 2 different DAC’s as well as 2 different recording interfaces, the ones I use for recording music The Pi 4 had timing issues with the more expensive recording interface. The lesser quality interface preformed very well better than expected, The consumer based DAC’s had no issues I could even use them for mixing/mastering. The aps for the phones are a welcome change too...
For anyone thinking about Raspberry Pi streaming but not sure you can get a real good idea of what it is like by flashing the PC (X86/X64) version of Volumio to a USB/thumb drive and booting your PC from this drive. The hardest part (and it is not hard) is you that have to go into your PC's BIOS to boot from the USB drive. These Raspberry Pi operating systems are so small they run on the USB drive and don't effect the rest of your PC at all. You will be able to see how Volumio works, what it looks like, how to control it with your phone/tablet, how it connects to your hi-fi, etc..
I would like to run Amazon Music HD on a Pi but it looks like I cannot...so I am now contemplating a Node 2i. I would much rather stick with my Pi 4 and USB DAC though running with Kodi software. The reason I use Kodi is because there is an add-on which will generate a playlist (from my local library) much like the Genius functionality in iTunes, the software on a Node 2i cannot do that.
Hello John, I bought the Shiit modi3 today. The price in Germany is about 160 € from the english distributor of Shiit. Maybe 10 € or 15 € can be saved if the modi3 is imported directly from the US. I remark this only, because you said a lower price in several videos.
Are you considering revisiting the Allo USBridge paired with the Schiit Modi3? I tried my Modi 3 connected to a bonnetless Raspberry Pi 4B USB output. It was listenable with Sennheiser HD555s. Schiit has done a good job stopping the USB grunge at the port.
Sorry if this is silly... Do I need to connect the RPi streamer to an external DAC and not directly to my amplifier (which has a DAC already). Also, how does a streamer compare to 24-bit Bluetooth like aptX HD protocol? Because if the difference is negligible (if any) then it might be worth simply streaming from phone/tablet or laptop over Bluetooth (assuming you are near your sound system).
I tried Raspberry Pi solutions a few years ago, but I couldn't get them to stream reliably from radio sources (they also couldn't be programmed for local radio streams). Plus, they weren't good for multi-room applications. Is anyone doing that well now? I'd ditch my SONOS system if I could get both multi-room and an all-in-one box (streamer, pre, amp) for a few rooms. What is the solution for this other than SONOS these days?
One fun thing to add would be the 7-inch touch screen, and a good case for that and the Pi, like the SmartiPi Touch 2 which looks really good - smarticase.com/products/smartipi-touch-2 If you run Volumio or some similar software on it, you know have a touch screen streamer that you can control just by walking up to it and using the touch functionality. With the optional thicker back for it you can fit the DAC HAT card in there as well. Sure, you can hide it away and just use a web browser, but the ability to both do that and operate it from its own touch screen is kind of a cool idea i think. Also, since the Pi has built-in Wifi, no need to even plug in with a wire to the network. Also, alternatively, replace the DAC HAT with an AMP HAT, and plug speakers into this unit directly. The quality of the amplification may be non-audiophile-approved, but for a kitchen sound system or bedroom noise maker system, plugging in some cheap speakers like a pair of Micca RB42? Should be absolutely surperb cheap combo.
Hi John. Lovin' the videos thanks. can you please give me a bit of advice. I have a arcam solo movie 5 .1. With kef floorstanders. What streamer/ server would you suggest. I'm like you I have all my cds from UK. Cheers Micky
Does anybody know how to get dissent audio output from raspberry pi zero w? I found few schematics how to do it with few caps and resistors. But I was wondering if there is a better way (HDMI or USB doesn't count for me). Basically, what I am looking for is a DIY shield, but not buy as a product but solder it myself, maybe buy a PCB and components (most of the components I would already have I guess). I would like to use it for streaming mp3 (from sd card) to the stereo system and use iPhone as remote. If somebody is asking why, because I have R pi zero w and I do not want spend money on a other one. I think it must be powerful enough (most of the time I am building stuff from Arduino).
This is pure gold, you have convinced me to take the plunge. I’m on the first rung of the audiophile ladder. I’m currently using a laptop for Tidal streaming. I was considering investing in the Pro-ject stream box S2 ultra, but at £599.00 for a Volumio box, I struggled to justify it.
Hi, Have you tested Khadas VIM3? Would be insteresting to review this device? at least their DAC is remarkable ruclips.net/video/xDuYnVzqLuA/видео.html
Here is a useful URL for list of I2S DACs and HATs for the Pi, probably not comprehensive but a good place to start and people do make an effort to keep it updated: forum.volumio.org/list-i2s-dacs-for-raspberry-t1103.html Maybe pin this comment or add it to your list of URLs above? 😉
Nice video on raspberry pi and audio details. One quick question, do you still prefer raspberry pi 3B over version 4B for audio DAC and streamers? I have a plan of making one as a streamer plus DAC. Thank you.
Nicely done John. Thumbs up. Since I have no issue with the idea, content or presentation, what can I troll you for? Oh yeah! Why is their static in the background music of an audiophile channel? ;-)
Great tutorial! I was wondering a couple of things. Firstly, I have a a Spotify premium subscription. To get Spotify's maximum sound quality with least compression you need to use a desktop, the mobile version is capped. If I use a Raspberry Pi with software to stream from Spotify, would it be at the full quality? Second question, can any of the software be used to play internet radio without the phone, e.i, If I select the radio stream and my phone dies, will it just keep on playing the radio stream? Thanks
Can you control the Pi through the HDMI port? Basically, hook up a monitor and utilize the OS through GUI? The OS you put on there I presume has some sort of interface through that port? I almost want to test it just to see what it looks like.
Hi John, I am still new to the RPi world. Maybe a stupid question but can a external hard drive be connected to the RPi? If I don't want to stream music over the network.
I stay away from network streaming, shit get disconnected and your fucked with no support running a old software. I keep my connection USB to a PC, plug and play that simple
I used to use the RPi for Streaming and it qas great, as long as you used something like the Hifiberry DAC...but since support of Streaming Services was rather spotty I gave up on it an now use the (sadly discontinued) ChromeCast Audio instead...
Well just interested in pi , their potentional ans different functions. Not an audio enthusiastic bit intriged how good this thing is. U video this in a large space, yet ur video sound quality us brilliant. What mic did you use and did u alter it. Jealous of your very easy going vocal tone. Good vid. Will look at ypur other projects . Watched the hole vid
I am just getting into the Raspberry pi world and I noticed you were using the pi 3 and I am using the newest pi 4 . I am just wondering if you have heard anything about the usb being clearer on the 4 than the 3. I am using a kodi os and bubbleupnp software and the usb into a JDS el dac ii . Would this be better if I had put a hat on the pi ?
The presenter really shouldn't be touching the components with his fingers, as static electricity can kill delicate electronics. Always make sure you first touch a tap, or radiator first to discharge any static from your body.
I wish I saw this two years earlier, lucky those who are new to this because now they can get this information in an enjoyable video. Anyway, it was a pleasure to watch, because I use Allo DigiOne. I'm thinking about Chord Mojo or maybe Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital instead of Marantz PM6006 internal DAC. I'm glad there is Darko.Audio which makes this journey way more enjoyable, so thank you!
4 года назад
You can also attach a screen and there are projects to pull the album art from spotify or tidal. I have a little 3inch square screen that displays what's being played over my Sonos system. I also have mopidy and icecast installed so in these covid times I can cast over the net and friends can listen and control what's being played so we can listen to music while not being able to hang out.
Can the pi be used just to have connected to an external hard drive with music on there instead of streaming. Is there a way of connecting a phone to the pi and accessing the usic on a hard drive i wonder?
Hello there, this was a great video and enthused me enough that I went out and built a streamer. I had an old Raspberry 2B knocking about and stuck a HifiBerry Digi+ Pro HAT on it. Downloaded Volumio's free system and now have a set up I am really pleased with. It runs through an Audolab DAC-Mini into an old Cyrus 7 amp and biggish B&W speakers ( forgot the series number). All my music files are on an SSD that connects to the Raspberry's USB . . and thats it. I am sure there are much higher end ways of doing this but I am spending the cash I saved on more music. Thank you for a practical video that actually means something rather dancing on the head of some critical pin like so many others. Keep it coming !
Honestly? Iv really hate these videos.. you make it look easy.. these pifi devices are not easy to get running. Thanks for tricking me into wasting my time money on a raspberry pi
I've been watching your channel lately and I love it. A) Prices are in Euro always a plus but you're honest about everything. Sometimes a lot of audiophile channels talk down to you and you go away more confused than you come into it! Keep up the good work!
Could you do a video on using a mc or mac to play itunes and what to put inbetween them and a desktop dac like the hugo tt2 for the best sound quality.
Great introduction John. I understand the hardware as I use a Raspberry Pi for other applications. What confuses me is the actual streaming process. Please could you do a beginners guide to streaming, specifically on how you would stream music stored on a PC to the Raspberry Pi.
Hey there ADVANCED RPi users! What OS are you running and for what purpose e.g. Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, Roon ?
RoPieeeXL with the Allo Digione feeding a Naim Dac via BNC from Roon or Spotify. (you need the XL version to provide DLNA,Airplay and Spotify Connect)
I was previously using dietpi which gives you the ability to install a wide range of software (inc. Roonbridge and Spotify Connect) and this OS is preferable if you want to do more with the Pi than simply using it as an audio endpoint (for example, to run Pihole).
I also have a Pi with hifiberry AMP+ installed inside an old valve radio which acts as a wireless Roon/Spotify endpoint with simple internet radio streaming via a re-purposed remote control. Makes for a nice low-fi kitchen playback device.
As an advanced user with extensive hands on time and personal everyday use I will break down my personal favorite operating systems, also before covering any operating system details I have always use ETCHER to "Burn" the os image to micro sd.
Raspberry pi 3 B+: For movie and tv streaming (including internet archive gaming / rom's) I always use LebreElec "just enough os for KODI" once Kodi is installed there are a plethora of repo's out that will satisfy most of your audio & visual needs (My two favorite Kodi addons would be CCloud for TV and Exodus for TV and Movies on demand). LebreElec has been running on my Pi 3 B+ for about 4 months now without any issues and performs great both using Ethernet and or WiFi, I would suggest using a decent "AIR MOUSE remote" with keypad on back fir an enjoyable user experience.
Raspberry Pi Zero W: Not so great as a tv streaming device as it lacks the physical computing power of its larger brothers or sisters (Pi 2,3,4's) etc, but works well for game rom emulation using (RETRO PI Os) and plays most game consoles up to and including SNES very well (in retro pi I have found that (snes9x 2002) for snes rom emulation works best at the moment and I have not experienced any game breaking performance issues.
Octo print "os" is also a very handy os for raspberry pi if your into 3d printing and want remote control, remote video streaming of prints, and wireless upload of gcode to you 3d printer (Please cross reference your 3d printer, firmware, etc before hand for compatibility)
Audiolinux ramroot roon bridge (pi4b 4gb) in Metrum Amber.
Volumio (AirPlay, NAS, works with my Smart Home Hub [Home Assistant]). I will try another Pi with HifiBerry OS and Room Correction with the HifiBerry DAC+ DSP.
Pcmstreamer for Windows real-time audio streaming.. RUclips, Roon, games..
John, it is great when you explain and break down issues for those of us who are eager to learn more. Your beginner’s guide to DACs was fantastic. Please keep them coming sir. Brilliant work.
Single* board computer, sorry mate i had to
Great video John, I'm curious on your opinion on using the raspberry pi to deliver digital music to a dac vs using a Chromecast audio?
Errors in digital transmission do exist. They can result in dropouts. A metallic sound can be the result of configuration. The software mixer may mix in some other channels that should be switched off. Jitter or dropouts sound so bad that you would know, there is something very wrong in the connection or transmission. "Sounds a bit smoother than USB" is hard to digest. If you use software to do volume control then you can compromise the quality if you use a smaller part of your 16 or 24 bit resolution and therefore loosing headroom. The USB interface can send the volume as a parameter, but toslink can't. So if you want your phone or other device to control the volume then USB actually "sounds better". If you are just interested in playback and don't do further processing the just stick with 44.1 or 48kHz and 16 bits. No person passed a double blinded test to favour anything higher than CD quality.
For me it’s not about HEARING a difference between bit rates but rather about making sure that my equipment doesn’t fold it down to a lower bit rate. I’m just trying to keep my streams consistent, I’m more worried about a balanced signal now lol
In am having a hard time to find any device that can stream RUclips music prime. Does anybody know if this thing is compatible with RUclips music ?
Great comparisons. Would love to see comparisons at the even higher end too, to see how it stands up. IE Mytek Brooklyn Bridge or Auralic Altair vs Allo digi one + a higher end dac. Is there a point where the raspberry pi stops being scaleable to higher end hifi systems? All good hypothetical questions i think.
Zeb Brown Agree - would be great to hear how they stack up against dedicated streamers e.g. LUMIN D2
@@mml8006 Nice video, I have been using Volumio on Raspberry Pi's for many years and have now arrived at the Allo Piano 2.1 plus Allo Kali, which is the best I have had so far. Please note that high end companies like Bryston use Raspberry Pi's in their new BDA-3.14 streamer that have exceptional quality at an exceptional price (approx eur 5.000), thats how scaleable the Raspberry Pi is.
Squeeze Ctrl is the best android app for squeezebox. I use a pi with HiFiBerry Digi+ Pro (blows the DigiOne away IMO). Then i also use a screen with touchscreen to mimic the sb touch and its awesome. Full 24 bit 192k hi res.
Hi John, Loving the channel do you have any videos on the new Raspberry Pi 4? I want to create a DAC and would prefer to purchase 4 verses the 3 model.
This video convinced me to put together a Raspberry Pi and Allo Digi 1. I love the sound quality it provides but I also loved the DIY/tinkering to get it up and running, way more fun than just a plug and play box. Thanks John!
Yep motivated now.. I am heading down this path
What kind of DAC are you running with this?
Since there doesn't seem to be a consensus on which OS sounds best I went with the one that was easiest to install/use = piCorePlayer + Orange Squeeze. The fact that I was already very familiar with the LMS ecosystem made it even easier (for me).
BTW - Do you know if there is a metal case for DigiOne Signature yet?
I do not want to subscribe to Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect ect,. I want to tune into Free internet... How to, please... www.accuradio.com/classical/?name=Period:%20Classical&b0=Classical
Even if this video is 4 years old, I'm going to use this for my television, here in America. I'm done with roku streaming services in 2024.
Cheers!
This was one of your best videos in my opinion. Please continue the good work sir.
Never even considered a Pi/HAT solution...That is dope. Thanks for the vid!
Darn that warning @ 14:50! 😁 Biting my tongue……
John, let me congrat for the super informative feat you did. Very informative, unbiased, crystal clear. I think your contribution is very beneficial for the HiFi community as a whole.
I remember when I started RaspyFi in 2013 (the predecessor to Volumio). I was the first to see in the PI some potential for audio and the first to create an ad-hoc distro for it (showoff mode off). So many people laughed at me, back then.
Many said that the PI was just a toy, and Hi-Fi needed much more serious and beefy equipment. Some years later, it's great to see how this little toy is making HiFi a little bit funnier and a little bit more democratic.
As they say, time is a gentleman.
Thank you very much for Volumio and your committment! Big respect dear Michelangelo!
Hi John, did I get right that RPi->DigioOne HAT-> SPDIF to DAC sounds better than RPi->Usb to DAC?
Or does that depend on SPDIF/USB input receivers quality in DAC?
Thanks
I can tell you it does its what I am using and its tons better using the rca to your dac.
Just a small clarification: the Pi does not have DACs. It uses PWM for the onboard audio. Not recommended for anyone looking for any sort of quality.
Useful info!
Can it do tidal via airplay?i have ipeng on my iphone. Is roon a must?
I never thought that a digital source that feeds a dac could alter the sound. I don't want to be that guy that says that it's not possible and that has to convince the whole mankind that he is right, but how is it possible? My dac has a feature where you play a particular file from your source, and in the menu of the dac you enable a function that analyzes the bitstream that it receives and if there's something that tampers the data (like the standard windows audio driver) it tells you, while if everything is set up properly it shows you that you are in bitperfect. How can there be something that alters the music without changing the bitstream? Maybe some kind of analog noise signal that passes trough usb or coaxial? But it shouldn't be the case with optical cables. Am I wrong?
99% of the video content that you've done on streaming and DACs is about the hardware, so that makes sense. Please spend more time on the software component, and more than just Roon. Thanks
JLS7288 Definitely agree. I can’t get myself to pull the trigger on Roon because of the cost, despite loving the feature set. Plex has some new integration with Tidal that I’ve been playing with. Would love to see an “alternatives to Roon” video.
JLS7288 Panjin79 I agree. I am thinking of getting a NAD M10 BlueOS compatible amp in my main listening room but would like a RaspberryPi streaming setup in my second room and was wondering if a Raspberry Pi could be configured to work with BlueOS software for streaming?
Interesting but too complicated
Another nice video John. But many of us probably don't have network cable running to all our endpoints and therefore need WiFi in these applications and you didn't touch on how to go about that. Please!
It's often OS dependent. Ropieee doesn't support wifi. You'll need to find one that does.
I learn more on your channel than any of the others.
Anytime John touches the board of the Raspberry Pi I can literally feel the electrostatic discharge :D
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@@DarkoAudio you must have had that grounding strap on your wrist n'est pa.
@@DarkoAudio
L😂L
First computer I built ( when the world was young) I had read somewhere that the best way to ground yourself was to stand in bare feet during the build. It took me all night standing on bare feet on a cold stone kitchen floor to complete the PC. Coincidentally or not I got a grotty chest infection and had to take a week off work.
If I ever find out who put that egregious piece of crap advice on the internet we will have words. Course I was stupid, or naive, enough to believe it.
@@jimfarrell4635 I built my first PC in my carpeted living room while wearing socks. I missed the grounding memo... but all went well!
Great you’re spreading the word on this John, I’ve been using Rpie streaming for a while now, it’s fantastic. The best I’ve heard for pure sound quality is the Allo USbridge Signature running Moode operating system, controlling it for Quobuz and local streaming with MconnectHD on my iPad. Amazing value for money.
Hi Richard,
Are you getting mConnect to work gaplessly with Qobuz?
Did you also try Moode with Tidal? Do you still use the Tidal app or somehow run it through the Moode app?
Hi, yes, Quobuz works gapless, I haven’t tried a Tidal.
Andrew, on the Moode web config page, you enter your Tidal/Quobuz username and password.
This is the classiest Raspberry Pi video I’ve ever seen.
Seconded!
Especially since it's not one of those million videos that's like "DeSKtOp RePlAcEmEnT Finally?!?!?!"
I loved this video and definitely will be getting a pi soon as I need another project.... was wondering if you were familiar with a software called Peppymeter? It takes signal and puts it on an analog vu meter on a screen.... was wondering if the building process was the same as far as downloading onto disc and maybe do a video on it as you really know your stuff.... anyways, just subscribed and thanks again for the info
I love this video and appreciate knowing that the streaming process can be simplified and done at low cost. However, for me, the Roon Nucleus is a better path for me since the cost aspect is not a big factor and I much rather spend my time exploring and discovering music than fiddling with tech components. If I was 25 rather than 70, I might go for this. lol.
I assume you can run left and right outputs into an amp by aux input, yes?
Hey there John, I just wanted to tell you how bloody marvellous that was and to thank you for giving me so much more to think about in my current quest to find a new digital transport to replace my ageing Sonos system (especially now that they’ve screwed over their oldest and most loyal customers - but hey, let’s not go there!).
I also wanted to say how pleased I am that I just stumbled on your RUclips channel - it’s soooooo, refreshing to hear straight talking, down to Earth, honest (and well informed) opinions, without all that "What’s up RUclips" overhyped b@llocks that so many RUclipsr’s seem to think is a prerequisite for a modern, successful channel! And to get unadulterated, clearly explained opinions on quality audio without the cringe-worthy nonsense that often accompanies some people’s ‘audiophile’ opinions is even more refreshing - You may even help to make the term ‘audiophile’ less scoffed as pretentious twoddle, and help us mere mortals understand what it really is / or should be. Well done you 👍👏
The real strength of the Pi is its versatility. One is not locked into a pre-built box but rather can expand its use to whatever suits your needs.
There are other brands and flavors of single board computers, but RPi has the biggest development community and widest variety of applications and peripheral hardware.
@@timmooney7528 and this is the recipe to make it successful.
I use the Pi as a NAS to store the music and via LAN its streaming on my streamer. Os is openmediavault and minidlna plugin and works great with hi-ficast app.
Isn’t it SINGLE Board computer instead of SMALL board computer?
Man, really? If you know he made a mistake, why can’t you just politely comment the correction? Why do you have to ask it as a rhetorical question complete with caps lock? You sound pretentious as fuck.
Have you pulled the brown paper bag like protective sticker of your Digione Signature yet?
I’ve been rocking the Digione Signature after your review. It can be rather complicated setting it up if you aren’t in to software burning. I started with dietpi, tried Max2Play and then settled on Volumio.
I have noticed that the sound quality on an attached USB drive plays better than the airplay option.
I did notice it was cleaner than the MacBook Pro. The noise which I couldn’t hear was gone once I heard the same music via the Digione Signature. Funny how I didn’t notice the noise till I heard something cleaner 😁
I own a Pi 3b with the Allo Boss DAC you show here. It's OUTSTANDING. I actually like the acrylic case for the Pi & Boss DAC because it's clear, which makes it a conversation piece rather than just another piece of gear, especially since my Pi does lots of other things.
Even though I am inclined to believe differences in the quality of a digital signal should not matter, I did find the video useful. I’m looking at what to buy. I have a NAS with about 3500 tracks. I use Spotify as well but I’m leaning towards looking to both Apple music (because it integrates better into my Apple ecosystem) or Tidal or Qobuz for the quality. I don’t see myself paying a subscription or even 700 dollars for something like Roon. I sometimes think I still want physical media. I no longer have CDs but lately I’ve been thinking of getting an old Philips CD304 II that is built like a tank. It has a coax output. I have good speakers and a power amp (a preamp too but that’s all analog). The question is, what do I put in the middle. I’m a software engineer so would have no problems setting up a Pi, but I don’t want to have to run updates all the time myself. Plus I am looking for, say, a stylish solution. I was thinking of the NAD AMP1, NAD C658 (but that’s expensive), Bluesound Node 2 or 2i, Yamaha WXC-50 or Yamaha R-N803D. The reason for looking at Yamaha is that audiosciencereview.com seem to indicate they have excellent measured performance, which should at least guarantee that the designers have done their homework. But the app is important too.
I think an audiophile shouldn't mind fiddling with stuff to really enjoy the hobby.
Imagine what is was like in the days when you could build better speaker cabinets than you could buy, or could swap out the cheaper parts in your receivers and amps to provide more headroom and less harmonic distortion.
plese don't use the DAC inside PIs, get your signal out through USB or HDMI and use a dedicated DAC or another device to convert it to analog. You will be amazed of the results :). P.S my setup is: RPi->hdmi->TV->optical audio out->Yamaha A-S501(using DAC inside)->Wharfedale Diamond 230
Good video. Just for comparison, I bought a Yamaha WXAD10 about a week ago for £125 and it’s pretty good. No digital out though. It does Airplay, bluetooth, all the main streaming sites etc. It sounds good but can be a bit flakey with WiFi and the app occasionally, but not enough to get really annoying (yet). I think it’s pretty good value, all in all. There’s a Burr Brown chip in there so it’s not an audio slouch.
really enjoy your videos. I use the Node 2i in my main room and most of the house because it's user-friendly for the whole family and I think it sounds great. I think this RPie version would be great for non-wired locations like a remote family room, the garage or even outside via wifi. Was considering a new (Schitt?) DAC for the Node but not sure I'll gain much for the added cost and complexity. Have the Schitt Mulibit in my office on a macbook and love it.
Rpi 3, hifiberry digi+, schiit Modi, volumio.
Though pretty annoyed by volumio even with subscription to have tidal. Volumio keep on loosing tidal.
Mostly moved now to Chromecast audio and schiit Modi 2.
What would you recomend between a Boss DAC alone vs DigiHat + Modi 3? Is there a big difference or would it be cheaper/simpler to just do the Boss DAC? Thanks!
Ropiee it's also compatible with Audioquest cobalt USB DAC? Because I din't see the audioquest DAC on Hardware compatibility list of ropiee, but also used like roon endpoint?
John, as someone who is Raspberry Pi curious but was somewhat mystified by the platform, you have provided an exceptionally well thought out explanation of this very interesting corner of audio. I always thought you had to be a "computer guy" to use these, which I am not. I may still give it a shot though as a bit of a challenge for myself. When it comes to digital audio, you are my go-to guy.
That was my aim for this video: to take the 'computer guy' out of the picture.
@@DarkoAudio Mission accomplished.
Thanks mate I was really confused but now I am less confused. Great channel.
Question. Do you put door stops on your small units just so the cables don't drag it off the top?
I wonder if you could prove a difference in the digital signal if you had access to an oscilloscope. You could compare the shape and voltage of the "square" waves.
Edit: just watched your Saturday vid and realized "we don't do measurements", so nvm.
I would get a couple of PI's but no one shows how to put operating system on it or you need 100other item to just get the damn thing to work
Love the video! Basic tablets are pretty inexpensive - would it be possible to use one as a media streamer? With a USB, you could plug in a DAC, right? Then you could keep it propped up on a stand and you could just press buttons to play music whenever.
Raspberry Pi is also great for playing offline music. My configuration is the following: 1. Raspberry Pi, 2. Raspbian, 3. Java 8, 4. 2 Tb drive, 5. TJWS, 6. MusicBarrel, 7. Receiver and enjoy.
Thanks, great channel, I've subbed.
I'm just getting into audio, and devouring (selectively) YT vids. My big question is: Are the vast majority of audiophiles men? It seems that way from YT, and I know my wife has a hatred of my loud music. Assuming it was the quality she didn't like I went on Amazon and spent some money, and now she likes my music less. Is this normal?
LMFAO at "Schiit DAC" Can you PLEASE make a video on how to stream a USB microphone to a stream over a network?
QUESTION: If I want to stream music from Tidal, for example, do I connect the RJ45 port directly to my router/modem for the streaming? And then do I use my phone relentlessly to my router (same router) and that will allow me to manage the Pi streamer? On this video, I missed how the Pi gets connected to the incoming modem/router stream.
All the Raspberry Pi OSes use Linux. Linux has superb upscaling abilities but you need to edit your ALSA or PULSE config files. I play all my music through an old laptop running Linux and I have the output set to 24bit 192 Khz (which I feed into a Cambridge Audio DAC Magic). The Linux OS does a better job of upscaling than any DAC I have heard - so whatever USB DAC you have you can run it with the highest quality digital input it can handle. Hence all my DAC is doing is converting to analog - the processing is all done on the Laptop as well as managing the playlist (I don't use internet streaming services).
The audio processing abilities of Linux seem to be a well kept secret but they far outperform Windows or MacOS. Worth a look maybe
I just use an old Pentium laptop as a 'media center', with terabyte usb storage. I long ago ripped all my CD's to FLAC. Such lowball laptops are still available new for say $250. It runs Windows 10, but a bit laggy. Sure a Pi and extras are less, but come on, $100 bucks saved, so what? Placed at my listening location, with a wireless mouse to do most functions. Dragonfly DAC, but will probably upgrade. So no, I don't have phone app to control it. No biggie. Don't need it. My problem, such as it is, is that the DAC out is connected to my NAD amp with a 25' RCA cable. Surely not the best thing. HDMI out goes straight to the TV. (well sort of but never mind) When it's time to listen to headphones, just plug them into the DAC. Streams Netflix. Streams Tidal. Streams freaking RUclips. Streams all my files.
Digital over USB? From my years of experience working with digital if there are no errors in the transmission of the "0" and "1" you are golden. That being said USB has always been a resource hog... Out of curiosity I attached my Audio interface that I use for recording, (relatively new) to the Raspberry Pi 4. Maybe the Raspberry Pi 4 hardware has better USB it seemed to sound about as cloce to what I was mixing on the big workstation using the same amp speaker (near field monitors). Though the DAW software was struggling on playback using 32bit float at what ever sample rate I was using at the time when i recorded the song, the rendered results played fine on media Player VLC 16bit wave and MP3. this was using both the USB 2 and USB 3 ports on different tryouts. Yes there is the typical click and pop changing playback software that I get with this interface when using ALSA when I'm using "JACK connection kit" on the workstation there is no odd clicks and pops under Linux. it also draws its power from the USB port too. I could see my self using this in the field one day with a battery pack and portable screen.
Ps. the latency was low-enough to record harmonising backing vocals... Though I would never use this set up permanently It was just to find out how well it works... The digital from the HDMI is very clean, dynamic and musical through one of my playback DACs
Nice, but why not using the HDMI output for digital audio? It is already there, without limitations like S/PDIF via Cinch or TOSLink, high bitrate, and standard for modern digital amplifiers.
Been having a lot of fun with Raspberry Pi and streaming. Ended up making a Server and Player setup loosely based on the Squeezebox/LMS setup. The server is using a 8Gb Pi4 and a SSD. The player is using a Pi Zero W. Ended up rolling my own software combination So the server can have it’s Music can be uploaded from the network or downloaded from the server. The LMS setup is quite a bit better than the Slimp3 days. The real revelation was using the Pi Zero as the playback via USB using a mostly competent DAC by FX-Audio the plan was to get a digital output card for the Zero in the end it did not need it, Just my Scottish self not spending money I do not need to spend! While testing I ended up trying 2 different DAC’s as well as 2 different recording interfaces, the ones I use for recording music The Pi 4 had timing issues with the more expensive recording interface. The lesser quality interface preformed very well better than expected, The consumer based DAC’s had no issues I could even use them for mixing/mastering. The aps for the phones are a welcome change too...
For anyone thinking about Raspberry Pi streaming but not sure you can get a real good idea of what it is like by flashing the PC (X86/X64) version of Volumio to a USB/thumb drive and booting your PC from this drive. The hardest part (and it is not hard) is you that have to go into your PC's BIOS to boot from the USB drive. These Raspberry Pi operating systems are so small they run on the USB drive and don't effect the rest of your PC at all.
You will be able to see how Volumio works, what it looks like, how to control it with your phone/tablet, how it connects to your hi-fi, etc..
I would like to run Amazon Music HD on a Pi but it looks like I cannot...so I am now contemplating a Node 2i. I would much rather stick with my Pi 4 and USB DAC though running with Kodi software. The reason I use Kodi is because there is an add-on which will generate a playlist (from my local library) much like the Genius functionality in iTunes, the software on a Node 2i cannot do that.
Hello John, I bought the Shiit modi3 today. The price in Germany is about 160 € from the english distributor of Shiit. Maybe 10 € or 15 € can be saved if the modi3 is imported directly from the US. I remark this only, because you said a lower price in several videos.
Are you considering revisiting the Allo USBridge paired with the Schiit Modi3? I tried my Modi 3 connected to a bonnetless Raspberry Pi 4B USB output. It was listenable with Sennheiser HD555s. Schiit has done a good job stopping the USB grunge at the port.
Sorry if this is silly... Do I need to connect the RPi streamer to an external DAC and not directly to my amplifier (which has a DAC already). Also, how does a streamer compare to 24-bit Bluetooth like aptX HD protocol? Because if the difference is negligible (if any) then it might be worth simply streaming from phone/tablet or laptop over Bluetooth (assuming you are near your sound system).
I tried Raspberry Pi solutions a few years ago, but I couldn't get them to stream reliably from radio sources (they also couldn't be programmed for local radio streams).
Plus, they weren't good for multi-room applications.
Is anyone doing that well now? I'd ditch my SONOS system if I could get both multi-room and an all-in-one box (streamer, pre, amp) for a few rooms.
What is the solution for this other than SONOS these days?
One fun thing to add would be the 7-inch touch screen, and a good case for that and the Pi, like the SmartiPi Touch 2 which looks really good - smarticase.com/products/smartipi-touch-2 If you run Volumio or some similar software on it, you know have a touch screen streamer that you can control just by walking up to it and using the touch functionality. With the optional thicker back for it you can fit the DAC HAT card in there as well. Sure, you can hide it away and just use a web browser, but the ability to both do that and operate it from its own touch screen is kind of a cool idea i think. Also, since the Pi has built-in Wifi, no need to even plug in with a wire to the network. Also, alternatively, replace the DAC HAT with an AMP HAT, and plug speakers into this unit directly. The quality of the amplification may be non-audiophile-approved, but for a kitchen sound system or bedroom noise maker system, plugging in some cheap speakers like a pair of Micca RB42? Should be absolutely surperb cheap combo.
Hi John.
Lovin' the videos thanks. can you please give me a bit of advice. I have a arcam solo movie 5 .1. With kef floorstanders. What streamer/ server would you suggest. I'm like you I have all my cds from UK.
Cheers Micky
Does anybody know how to get dissent audio output from raspberry pi zero w? I found few schematics how to do it with few caps and resistors. But I was wondering if there is a better way (HDMI or USB doesn't count for me). Basically, what I am looking for is a DIY shield, but not buy as a product but solder it myself, maybe buy a PCB and components (most of the components I would already have I guess). I would like to use it for streaming mp3 (from sd card) to the stereo system and use iPhone as remote. If somebody is asking why, because I have R pi zero w and I do not want spend money on a other one. I think it must be powerful enough (most of the time I am building stuff from Arduino).
This is pure gold, you have convinced me to take the plunge. I’m on the first rung of the audiophile ladder. I’m currently using a laptop for Tidal streaming. I was considering investing in the Pro-ject stream box S2 ultra, but at £599.00 for a Volumio box, I struggled to justify it.
Hi, Have you tested Khadas VIM3? Would be insteresting to review this device? at least their DAC is remarkable
ruclips.net/video/xDuYnVzqLuA/видео.html
Here is a useful URL for list of I2S DACs and HATs for the Pi, probably not comprehensive but a good place to start and people do make an effort to keep it updated:
forum.volumio.org/list-i2s-dacs-for-raspberry-t1103.html
Maybe pin this comment or add it to your list of URLs above? 😉
Nice video on raspberry pi and audio details. One quick question, do you still prefer raspberry pi 3B over version 4B for audio DAC and streamers? I have a plan of making one as a streamer plus DAC. Thank you.
Nice video but no mention of alternative power supplies which give immediate benefit and are easy to use.
I think all of the Pi solutions benefit.
They probably do but this is a *beginner's* guide.
Great and very informative video. Thanks
Is there a HAT board which can output I2S via an HDMI connector that could connect to PS Audio DACs?
Nicely done John. Thumbs up. Since I have no issue with the idea, content or presentation, what can I troll you for? Oh yeah! Why is their static in the background music of an audiophile channel? ;-)
Great tutorial! I was wondering a couple of things. Firstly, I have a a Spotify premium subscription. To get Spotify's maximum sound quality with least compression you need to use a desktop, the mobile version is capped. If I use a Raspberry Pi with software to stream from Spotify, would it be at the full quality? Second question, can any of the software be used to play internet radio without the phone, e.i, If I select the radio stream and my phone dies, will it just keep on playing the radio stream? Thanks
This really explained things to me. Thanks a million John! One question though using the raspberry pi streamer how would I access Amazon music Hd?
Can you control the Pi through the HDMI port? Basically, hook up a monitor and utilize the OS through GUI? The OS you put on there I presume has some sort of interface through that port? I almost want to test it just to see what it looks like.
Hi John,
I am still new to the RPi world. Maybe a stupid question but can a external hard drive be connected to the RPi?
If I don't want to stream music over the network.
I stay away from network streaming, shit get disconnected and your fucked with no support running a old software. I keep my connection USB to a PC, plug and play that simple
I used to use the RPi for Streaming and it qas great, as long as you used something like the Hifiberry DAC...but since support of Streaming Services was rather spotty I gave up on it an now use the (sadly discontinued) ChromeCast Audio instead...
Well just interested in pi , their potentional ans different functions. Not an audio enthusiastic bit intriged how good this thing is.
U video this in a large space, yet ur video sound quality us brilliant. What mic did you use and did u alter it. Jealous of your very easy going vocal tone. Good vid. Will look at ypur other projects . Watched the hole vid
I am just getting into the Raspberry pi world and I noticed you were using the pi 3 and I am using the newest pi 4 . I am just wondering if you have heard anything about the usb being clearer on the 4 than the 3. I am using a kodi os and bubbleupnp software and the usb into a JDS el dac ii . Would this be better if I had put a hat on the pi ?
The presenter really shouldn't be touching the components with his fingers, as static electricity can kill delicate electronics. Always make sure you first touch a tap, or radiator first to discharge any static from your body.
I wish I saw this two years earlier, lucky those who are new to this because now they can get this information in an enjoyable video. Anyway, it was a pleasure to watch, because I use Allo DigiOne. I'm thinking about Chord Mojo or maybe Pro-Ject Pre Box S2 Digital instead of Marantz PM6006 internal DAC. I'm glad there is Darko.Audio which makes this journey way more enjoyable, so thank you!
You can also attach a screen and there are projects to pull the album art from spotify or tidal. I have a little 3inch square screen that displays what's being played over my Sonos system. I also have mopidy and icecast installed so in these covid times I can cast over the net and friends can listen and control what's being played so we can listen to music while not being able to hang out.
Can the pi be used just to have connected to an external hard drive with music on there instead of streaming. Is there a way of connecting a phone to the pi and accessing the usic on a hard drive i wonder?
I have a wealth of audio experience, but Raspberry Pie baking has eluded me thus far. Thank you John, you've demystified it.
Great vid thanks, will these digital outputs be a sound quality improvement over a MacBook Air USB into my Chord Mojo for Tidal/Qobuz etc
Hi John
I have an Intel NUC
Can I use it as a substitute for the Pi and be able to use the Streaming apps you’ve mentioned?
Tnx
Hello there, this was a great video and enthused me enough that I went out and built a streamer. I had an old Raspberry 2B knocking about and stuck a HifiBerry Digi+ Pro HAT on it. Downloaded Volumio's free system and now have a set up I am really pleased with. It runs through an Audolab DAC-Mini into an old Cyrus 7 amp and biggish B&W speakers ( forgot the series number). All my music files are on an SSD that connects to the Raspberry's USB . . and thats it. I am sure there are much higher end ways of doing this but I am spending the cash I saved on more music. Thank you for a practical video that actually means something rather dancing on the head of some critical pin like so many others. Keep it coming !
Honestly? Iv really hate these videos.. you make it look easy.. these pifi devices are not easy to get running. Thanks for tricking me into wasting my time money on a raspberry pi
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Synthesis Master
Great Job
I've been watching your channel lately and I love it. A) Prices are in Euro always a plus but you're honest about everything. Sometimes a lot of audiophile channels talk down to you and you go away more confused than you come into it! Keep up the good work!
Could you do a video on using a mc or mac to play itunes and what to put inbetween them and a desktop dac like the hugo tt2 for the best sound quality.
love to see how you got squeezbox (Orange Squeeze) to work on the Volumio Primo cos im buggered if can get it to work :-)
Try Max2Play works great for me.
I got it to work in my Volumio Primo video. Search for it on this channel.
Hi is the Raspberry Pi 2B suitable for this with the Allo Boss dac be very grateful for a response your video is just so good
Interesting video John, but do you have to use an Ethernet cable with the Pi, is there not Wi-Fi or Bluetooth capability on it yet?
maybe this is something to review “dionaudio.nl/loco-v2-dac-amp/“. This also a hat for de rpi with a class D amplifier.
Great introduction John. I understand the hardware as I use a Raspberry Pi for other applications. What confuses me is the actual streaming process.
Please could you do a beginners guide to streaming, specifically on how you would stream music stored on a PC to the Raspberry Pi.
Brian Tooze once you install something like ropieee.org/xl/ on your Pi, it will appear as a speaker you can connect/stream to via Apple AirPlay etc.