Received today my Volumio Rivo and the installation was smooth and with no hiccups. The first impression was extremely positive: the audio improvements compared to my previous Bluesound Node 2i is astonishing. Hope this device will confirmits greatness also in reliability. Thank you, Hans for your accurate review of the Volumio Rivo. That was very consequential on my decision to purchase the Volumio Rivo.
How are you getting on with the app and interface?. I bought mine a year ago and fully satisfied with the sound in this price range. I am persevering with the Volumio Rivo as the sound quality is really excellent , I am using it with a Linear PSU which is also required to deliver its best quality. I wonder how this compares with an higher end streamer as it really is a bit experimental in terms of the assembly topology and lack of user interface options including a remote. What would an upgrade path be ?
I have also noticed an improvement in reliability since Volumio 3 came out. My set up is very modest at the moment, consisting of a Raspberry Pi 3b with an Allo Boss dac attached run from an Allo wall wart PSU. Even on this older model SBC, I have very few glitches or hangups in my day to day use of the software. Thank you for your thoughts on the Rivo. It is on the list of my possible upgrade options.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel 👍 Dear Hans, I wondered whether you are aware of a better performing streamer (or a few) that costs $1000 - $2000 or euros? I have a pair of Dutch $ Dutch 8C powered speakers. So far, Volumio Rivo looks like an ideal candidate for me so far to stream into the pair of D$D 8C, which have the AES/EBU input. Especially if Rivo powered with a descent linear PS.
The Rivo sounds fantastic with the Farad Super3, and then I added the Roon Nucleus One and kicked it over the edge. I did add the Sbooster 19v power supply to the Nucleus one... This sounds incredible in my system. Oh, just received the Stack Audio SmoothLAN... Thanks again Hans!
I have to concur with the Neutrik AES/EBU to SPDIF converter, it does offer more clarity/detail vs the USB. I the added the Stack Audio SmoothLAN, and flushed out even more detail, especially with steel strings and cymbals. Really sounding good in here. Yes, "Enjoying the music"!
Hans appreciate your review. I have this streamer connected to my Cyan2 via USB cable…. You note on your listening that the USB output of the Rivo was bested by the AES connection…. Using a converter to I2S into your DAC. As the Cyan2 has no I2S input, I am limited to AES….. and USB of course Do you think it might make any noticeable improvement if I was to find a good AES cable and go directly into the AES input on the Cyan2 rather than the USB that I’m using now ?
@ yes it’s the Volumio Rivo so no I2s …only the USB I’m using ..and the AES that you liked more …was wondering how the AES input on the Cyan2 will compare to USB ..thanks
I guess my question is answered the good quality Mogami AES cable arrived , it immediately replaced the USB , then I sat down to, was shocked how good it is …streaming , music from the SSD = WOW , I think the Rivo + is on the back burner now
Hallo, Just curious ,the connection with Neutrik converter the cable had two different connectors Neutrik side BNC and DAC side RCA ? Can I use a digital RCA-RCA cable and on the Neutrik side an RCA to BNC adapter ? Thanks
Good evening Hans, is it correct that if I want best results from Rivo I need to connect via AES with convertor to BNC of my Chord Quest? Or is USB a good alternative? Thank you
Hi @TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel been watching your videos for a long time and always interesting. Question, why does the power supply matter in the quality of streams/music? And if this is the case why wouldn't a company like Volumio (or any for that matter) deliver their devices with the best available power supply? Thanks for your time!
You might want to watch this video: ruclips.net/video/B-StTplQZys/видео.html It makes clear what the influence on the sound of digital equipment is. Something similar goes for analog equipment. Since very good power supplies are very expensive, often a cheap power supply is chosen. Don't forget that retail price including VAT and shipping can be 5 to 6 times the production cost. So a € 100 power supply will cost the consumer € 500. Smaller, independent power supply manufacturers often have less overhead and a shorter sales channel and therefore can be cheaper. This is the basis for Audiofile power brick replacements.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannelthanks, much appreciated. I watched the video and as I understood this was more about switches. Admitting that obviously I'm just a "noob" it was still hard to grasp but i appreciate your time and reply. Many thanks and will keep following!
Dear Hans, First of all thank you for your very very good videos!! You recomended a AES/EBU to spdif converter. I would like to ask how to connect the NADITBNC-MX converter to Rivo? Rivo AES output is male . And that converter above the AES side also male. I think NADITBNC-FX would be better. But I am not sure. If I would like to use digital RCA cable, I need BNC to RCA adapter. in this case. Am I right? In summary I would like to try the AES/EBU output of Rivo (I ordered today) but my DAC have spdif (RCA) Input. What do you recommend me? Thank you for your help in advance!
Thank you Hans. I'm undecided between the Farad 3 and the Hypsos. From your experience, do you think the Farad 3 with the Purple Fuse and L2 Silver Cable will be superior to Hypsos? In that configuration, the Farad 3 is at the same price as the Hypsos.
Thank you so much for honest comparisons. I'm hoping you will also compare the EverSolo DMP-A6 master VS. the Hifi Rose 150B. One of these will be my next purchase... unless you can recommend something better for my consideration. Only by comparing can we get the true value. Software is huge. I bought a Fiio R7. The player is really good. But, their own app won't connect. That makes it very sub-par.
Thank you Hans! I was wondering what kind of cable you used to connect the aes/ebu to spdif converter to the Denafrips? Was the input on the Denafrips a RCA/spdif or something else?
As I said (and showed) in the video:"I wanted to know if the AES/EBU output would sound better. But since the Ares II doesn’t have an AES/EBU input, I inserted a Neutrik SPDIF to AES/EBU converter which in essence is a high frequent transformer. "
Hans, bought a Rivo based on your review - bottom line - sound is fantastic. However, my denafrips ares ii dac does not see the usb signal. am I doing something wrong? Initially, I hated the interface but I am getting used to it. Does it make sense to upgrade to a linear power supply.
I have experience with the MiniDSP SHD and it‘s Streaming Module, using Volumio. One can go Spdif and/or aes/ebu out. This part mimics the feature the Volumio RIVO has available. Usage scenario of Digital Streaming Bridge… Does one have listened to both gear? If both are comparable in sound quality, texture, layering, Imaging, then my Impression would be, that the Volumio RIVO feels overpriced! Btw, for demos, references, I am looking for a standalone device, affordable below 400,-€: Audio streamer with very good spdif out and gapless Playback. Thanks.
thanks for your work. If you could only choose one way to connect the DAC, what would it be? I use the Rivo on a Ferrum Erco and always come back to USB. Greetings, Marc
I would use whatever sounds the best. On the Rivo that's the SPDIF but I don't know if the SPDIF of the Erco is its best input since I have not reviewed it.
Interesting, thanks. Regarding Volumio software, it works well (original Primo) on a wired setup but I find it gltchy over wifi. The main problem is the very primitive library management. If you are happy to browse your filesystem every time you use it that works fine, but the lack of bookmarking and metadata management in general lets it down. So I spent my money on Roon instead of the subscription. Volumio also handles Spotify which Roon does not, so when exploring new music Volumio wins. The original Primo digital out does not get a lot of love - as it was built as a streamer/dac but the idea of using a Neutrik between that and an Aries sounds like a thing to test!
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel reviewers found that the original Primo digital out going in to a better DAC, was worse than using the internal DAC. I wondered if a Neutrik on the sp/dif output might solve that, if it was a jitter problem.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel would love to see you do a video on Ian Canada and his streamers and dac builds. Truly world class performance that won't break the bank
Received today my Volumio Rivo and the installation was smooth and with no hiccups.
The first impression was extremely positive: the audio improvements compared to my previous Bluesound Node 2i is astonishing. Hope this device will confirmits greatness also in reliability.
Thank you, Hans for your accurate review of the Volumio Rivo. That was very consequential on my decision to purchase the Volumio Rivo.
👍🏼
How are you getting on with the app and interface?. I bought mine a year ago and fully satisfied with the sound in this price range. I am persevering with the Volumio Rivo as the sound quality is really excellent , I am using it with a Linear PSU which is also required to deliver its best quality. I wonder how this compares with an higher end streamer as it really is a bit experimental in terms of the assembly topology and lack of user interface options including a remote. What would an upgrade path be ?
@@tpmbe Which PS are you using?
Thank you for the video Hans! I just purchased the Volumio Rivo, the Farad LPS and the Neutrik AES/EBU converter. Finger's crossed! ;-)
Enjoy the music!!
Thanks a lot for your videos!
Thank you too
Tack!
Super!
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel would you recommend getting AES/EBU - coax spdif converter?
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel thanks you sir. Great videos
I am a big fan of Volumio and streaming with bandcamp/soundcloud plugins. That's how I enjoy my music
👍🏼
You and me both 😊
Danke!I am using Rivo with Mytek Liberty 2 and I am happy…
👍🏼
Thanks!
Thank you too!
I have also noticed an improvement in reliability since Volumio 3 came out. My set up is very modest at the moment, consisting of a Raspberry Pi 3b with an Allo Boss dac attached run from an Allo wall wart PSU. Even on this older model SBC, I have very few glitches or hangups in my day to day use of the software.
Thank you for your thoughts on the Rivo. It is on the list of my possible upgrade options.
Thanks for sharing
Thank you, Hans! Very informative, as usual.
Glad you enjoyed it
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel 👍 Dear Hans, I wondered whether you are aware of a better performing streamer (or a few) that costs $1000 - $2000 or euros? I have a pair of Dutch $ Dutch 8C powered speakers. So far, Volumio Rivo looks like an ideal candidate for me so far to stream into the pair of D$D 8C, which have the AES/EBU input. Especially if Rivo powered with a descent linear PS.
Thank you Hans.
👍🏼
Good and detailed review , many thanks
My pleasure!
The Rivo sounds fantastic with the Farad Super3, and then I added the Roon Nucleus One and kicked it over the edge. I did add the Sbooster 19v power supply to the Nucleus one... This sounds incredible in my system. Oh, just received the Stack Audio SmoothLAN... Thanks again Hans!
Very nice!
May take awhile but just may be my next system upgrade.
Great review!
Good luck!
I have to concur with the Neutrik AES/EBU to SPDIF converter, it does offer more clarity/detail vs the USB. I the added the Stack Audio SmoothLAN, and flushed out even more detail, especially with steel strings and cymbals. Really sounding good in here. Yes, "Enjoying the music"!
👍🏼
Hans appreciate your review. I have this streamer connected to my Cyan2 via USB cable…. You note on your listening that the USB output of the Rivo was bested by the AES connection…. Using a converter to I2S into your DAC. As the Cyan2 has no I2S input, I am limited to AES….. and USB of course
Do you think it might make any noticeable improvement if I was to find a good AES cable and go directly into the AES input on the Cyan2 rather than the USB that I’m using now ?
That depends on the streamer’s outputs.
@ yes it’s the Volumio Rivo so no I2s …only the USB I’m using ..and the AES that you liked more …was wondering how the AES input on the Cyan2 will compare to USB ..thanks
I guess my question is answered the good quality Mogami AES cable arrived , it immediately replaced the USB , then I sat down to, was shocked how good it is …streaming , music from
the SSD = WOW , I think the Rivo + is on the back burner now
Hi Hans , Thanks for educating and providing insights. I am interested in knowing how the Rivo and the Mano 3 streamers compare . Many thanks
I have chosen the Mano MK 3 Farad
Hallo, Just curious ,the connection with Neutrik converter the cable had two different connectors Neutrik side BNC and DAC side RCA ? Can I use a digital RCA-RCA cable and on the Neutrik side an RCA to BNC adapter ? Thanks
That’s not advised. The XLR side has a different impedance
Good evening Hans, is it correct that if I want best results from Rivo I need to connect via AES with convertor to BNC of my Chord Quest? Or is USB a good alternative? Thank you
I prefer either AES/EBU or SPDIF (Coax) over USB
Hi @TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel been watching your videos for a long time and always interesting. Question, why does the power supply matter in the quality of streams/music? And if this is the case why wouldn't a company like Volumio (or any for that matter) deliver their devices with the best available power supply? Thanks for your time!
You might want to watch this video: ruclips.net/video/B-StTplQZys/видео.html It makes clear what the influence on the sound of digital equipment is. Something similar goes for analog equipment. Since very good power supplies are very expensive, often a cheap power supply is chosen. Don't forget that retail price including VAT and shipping can be 5 to 6 times the production cost. So a € 100 power supply will cost the consumer € 500. Smaller, independent power supply manufacturers often have less overhead and a shorter sales channel and therefore can be cheaper. This is the basis for Audiofile power brick replacements.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannelthanks, much appreciated. I watched the video and as I understood this was more about switches. Admitting that obviously I'm just a "noob" it was still hard to grasp but i appreciate your time and reply. Many thanks and will keep following!
Dear Hans, First of all thank you for your very very good videos!!
You recomended a AES/EBU to spdif converter. I would like to ask how to connect the NADITBNC-MX converter to Rivo? Rivo AES output is male . And that converter above the AES side also male. I think NADITBNC-FX would be better.
But I am not sure. If I would like to use digital RCA cable, I need BNC to RCA adapter. in this case. Am I right?
In summary I would like to try the AES/EBU output of Rivo (I ordered today) but my DAC have spdif (RCA) Input. What do you recommend me? Thank you for your help in advance!
I must have mistaken the model number. Of course you should use the converter with female XLR.
Thank you Hans, for the excellente review. The Farad 3 used in the review had the Purple Fuse and the L2 Silver Cable?
No, just the standard fuse and cable.
Thank you Hans. I'm undecided between the Farad 3 and the Hypsos. From your experience, do you think the Farad 3 with the Purple Fuse and L2 Silver Cable will be superior to Hypsos? In that configuration, the Farad 3 is at the same price as the Hypsos.
Hi Hans, what are your thoughts on using an Ifi Power Elite instead of a linear power supply? Thanks, Marc
I haven't tried it (yet?)
The Ifi Power Elite is on the Run. Great 👍🏻. The Rivo is now a Roon Endpoint. Im very Happy.
Thank you so much for honest comparisons. I'm hoping you will also compare the EverSolo DMP-A6 master VS. the Hifi Rose 150B. One of these will be my next purchase... unless you can recommend something better for my consideration. Only by comparing can we get the true value. Software is huge. I bought a Fiio R7. The player is really good. But, their own app won't connect. That makes it very sub-par.
My request for the HifiRose has been denied, so I can't. But, as you might have heard, the Eversolo DMP-A6 ME is now in my reference setup 2A.
What does it say about a company that refuses to send a product for review? I wonder what is wrong with it?
Thank you Hans! I was wondering what kind of cable you used to connect the aes/ebu to spdif converter to the Denafrips? Was the input on the Denafrips a RCA/spdif or something else?
As I said (and showed) in the video:"I wanted to know if the AES/EBU output would sound better. But since the Ares II doesn’t have an AES/EBU input, I inserted a Neutrik SPDIF to AES/EBU converter which in essence is a high frequent transformer. "
Hans, bought a Rivo based on your review - bottom line - sound is fantastic. However, my denafrips ares ii dac does not see the usb signal. am I doing something wrong? Initially, I hated the interface but I am getting used to it. Does it make sense to upgrade to a linear power supply.
For support please of to community.volumio.com
I have experience with the MiniDSP SHD and it‘s Streaming Module, using Volumio. One can go Spdif and/or aes/ebu out.
This part mimics the feature the Volumio RIVO has available. Usage scenario of Digital Streaming Bridge…
Does one have listened to both gear?
If both are comparable in sound quality, texture, layering, Imaging, then my Impression would be, that the Volumio RIVO feels overpriced!
Btw, for demos, references, I am looking for a standalone device, affordable below 400,-€:
Audio streamer with very good spdif out and gapless Playback.
Thanks.
Ah, also looking for miracles 😄
Would it be okay to pair it with an onkyo receiver?
Sure
Is there any cheaper commercial alternative would you recommend?
You find my reviews of sub € 500 network players here: ruclips.net/video/Iklv_SwOBxk/видео.html&pp=gAQBiAQB
Volumio Rivo Music Player Transport use SD- Kard VS EverSolo DMP-A6 MasterEdition intern SSD?
Did you watch the reviews`???
Please tell us your thoughts on Holo Red 🙏
I can't have thoughts on products I have not reviewed. Sorry.
thanks for your work. If you could only choose one way to connect the DAC, what would it be? I use the Rivo on a Ferrum Erco and always come back to USB. Greetings, Marc
I would use whatever sounds the best. On the Rivo that's the SPDIF but I don't know if the SPDIF of the Erco is its best input since I have not reviewed it.
Interesting, thanks. Regarding Volumio software, it works well (original Primo) on a wired setup but I find it gltchy over wifi. The main problem is the very primitive library management. If you are happy to browse your filesystem every time you use it that works fine, but the lack of bookmarking and metadata management in general lets it down. So I spent my money on Roon instead of the subscription. Volumio also handles Spotify which Roon does not, so when exploring new music Volumio wins. The original Primo digital out does not get a lot of love - as it was built as a streamer/dac but the idea of using a Neutrik between that and an Aries sounds like a thing to test!
The Neutrik won’t help here I’m afraid.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel that’s a shame.
@@mike_lowndes why would you want to use the Neutrik?
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel reviewers found that the original Primo digital out going in to a better DAC, was worse than using the internal DAC. I wondered if a Neutrik on the sp/dif output might solve that, if it was a jitter problem.
Compared to sms 200 ultra?
They’both very good when used with an audiophile psu
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel would love to see you do a video on Ian Canada and his streamers and dac builds. Truly world class performance that won't break the bank
@@ClassifiedBriefIan Canada sounds interesting 👍🏼
Don't understand if this Rivo is a great product or not( for the money) in your opinion ...
It's a fair product for the money.