Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Refined digital sound that is transparent and resolves fine details, offering a clear and expansive sound image
- New processing system with resampling flexibility, allowing upscaling or downscaling between 44.1kHz and 384kHz/DSD256
- User-friendly Lumin app for iOS that supports playback from network attached storage, Tidal, Qobuz, and Internet Radio
- Versatile connectivity with a comprehensive array of digital outputs
Product Considerations
- Ethernet connection only, foregoing internal Wi-Fi conversion
- Sound quality is highly dependent on the quality and matching of the DAC used
- Transparency reveals the quality of upstream components
- Felt/cloth feet might cause the unit to slip more easily than its predecessor
- May reveal flaws in poorly made recordings due to its high resolution
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- U2 Mini offers more resolution and air on the stage compared to the Lumin U1 Mini, represents a completely new generation of digital transports with obvious musicality
- Lumin U2 Mini had more resolution, a more clearly defined and expansive sound image, and a riper sound to each musical element, compared to Totaldac's internal streamer
- Competes closely in performance with the AURALiC Aries G2.1, especially concerning the amount of information and extension of the stage depth
Takeaway: The Lumin U2 Mini is a versatile streamer that delivers high-quality audio and is easy to integrate into existing audio systems. It offers great sound, a user-friendly app, and supports various streaming services, making it a worthy upgrade.
All
U2 Mini
reviews

Manufacturer details
- Network playback: Up to DSD512, Up to 768kHz, 16-32-bit, Stereo
- Digital Output: USB (DSD512, PCM 44.1-768kHz), Optical/Coaxial/AES (DSD64, PCM up to 192kHz)
- Power Supply: Internal shielded 100-240V AC auto-ranging
- Dimensions: 300mm (W) x 244mm (D) x 60mm (H)
- Weight: 2.5kg
- Input: Ethernet RJ45 network 1000Base-T
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Lumin products are designed with a focus on simplifying the user experience through their proprietary Lumin app, offering a comprehensive set of features and granular control over playback and resampling options without requiring additional third-party software in most use cases.
- The brand utilizes all-aluminum chassis construction across its product line, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and enhanced rigidity and shielding.
- Lumin incorporates Leedh Processing volume control, allowing for a preamp-less system configuration and potentially minimizing signal degradation.
Select products
Lumin D3
- Positioning: The entry-level model in the Lumin lineup, offering a cost-effective introduction to high-quality music streaming.
- Description: Features a compact all-aluminium chassis, which enhances damping performance compared to the previous D2 model. Uses the Sabre ES9028PRO DAC, providing up to DSD256 and PCM384 playback, making it suitable for users seeking high-resolution audio without the premium price of higher-end models like the T3X or X1.
Lumin U2 Mini
- Positioning: A mid-range transport-only model designed for users who already own a DAC and want to enhance their digital streaming setup.
- Description: Features Lumin's new processing system in a compact chassis, offering flexibility with upsampling and downsampling capabilities up to DSD256/PCM384. Provides five types of digital outputs, including USB, making it a versatile choice for those who need a transport to pair with their existing DAC, unlike the all-in-one players like the D3 or T3X.
Lumin T3X
- Positioning: A mid-to-high-end model that builds on the success of the T3, incorporating features from Lumin's flagship products.
- Description: Includes a toroidal linear power supply and optical fibre networking, features typically found in higher-end models like the X1. Uses dual ES9028Pro SABRE DACs for dual-mono operation.
Lumin U2
- Positioning: A high-end transport model aimed at audiophiles who require a dedicated digital transport to pair with their high-quality DACs.
- Description: Features an all-in-one chassis with a linear power supply and fibre network for noise isolation, similar to the flagship X1. Supports DSD512 and PCM768 playback.
Lumin X1
- Positioning: Lumin's flagship model, representing the pinnacle of their music player lineup.
- Description: Features dual ES9038PRO SABRE DACs and optical fibre networking, providing complete isolation from network noise. Supports native DSD512 and PCM768 playback, offering the highest audio quality in the lineup.
Our take on the brand
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Used
Lumin
What if you spend more?
Product Strengths
- Exceptional accuracy, lifelike tonality, engaging musicality, and very low noise
- It presents the music with accurate, defined, and nuanced reproduction of timbre
- Excellent build quality with solid aluminum panels and a high-quality feel
- The linear power supply provides a generous bass and treble
- It is capable of decoding all current digital music file formats
Product Considerations
- The Lumin app, while good, had a couple of minor bugs
- It needs at least 300+ hours to sound its best, as the sound improved notably after this time
- The display window on the U2 might be too small for some users
- Upper midrange slightly recessed, a quality which might suit many an overzealous system
- Reticent midrange might also account for why the kickdrum lacked some oomph—it might not be the best choice for heavy hard rock or industrial metal
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Node: The Lumin U2 offers a more open sound
- Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: The Lumin will bring a more open sound
- Vs Lumin U2 Mini: The U2 has much more life, breath and warmth, a more mature sound, more refined over the Mini with more warmth and solidity, and the stage was absolutely amazing, richer, denser, and deeper and has just a bit more magic
Takeaway: The Lumin U2 is an exceptionally well-designed and engineered streaming transport, blessed with neutral and natural tonality. The U2 delivers fantastic sound into systems where it may well be the premier component and set you up for the next decade or more, delivering further free improvements.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Exceptional sound quality is delivered through the AKM4490REQ Dual-Mono DAC
- It can be used as a music server, streamer, or dedicated DAC since it has a variety of digital inputs
- User-installable storage allows for customization
- Versatile connectivity options including HDMI ARC
Product Considerations
- An Ethernet cable is required, as it does not have built-in Wi-Fi, though it has Bluetooth/Wi-Fi antenna for Apple Airplay and Chromecast
- The single drive slot might be limiting for extensive local libraries
- There might be a learning curve for maximizing all features
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- PrimaLuna DAC is mentioned as an alternative external DAC
Takeaway: The A1000 is a versatile network player with great sound quality and multiple connectivity options, which makes it a good choice for audiophiles. It is designed to integrate well with both streaming services and local file playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Combines a dual-drive music library with an audiophile-grade network switch
- Requires zero configuration, making it plug-and-play
- Features a 4-port network switch with two SFP fibre ports for complete electrical isolation, reducing network noise
- CNC aluminum chassis provides excellent shielding and reduces vibrations
- Lumin provides detailed instructions for consumer installation of SSDs
Product Considerations
- The 8TB HDD version uses NTFS format, which may require additional software for Mac users
- Rear overhang may impact cable attachment and removal on some devices, mostly XLR connectors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Melco N1, the L2 seems to have 'fixed' most of our issues with music storage', while the Melco N1 runs Minimserver, which is a different take on music server and storage
- Compared to Aurender ACS100, the Lumin L2 is like a dedicated NAS, while the Aurender ACS100 adds CD ripping but does not offer network switching
Takeaway: The Lumin L2 is easy to set up and use, and it helps improve sound quality by reducing network noise. If someone wants a simple way to manage their music library and improve their audio system, this could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- The Auralic Aries S1 offers high-quality streaming at a relatively affordable price point, making it a great choice for those who value sound quality
- The design is exquisite, neat, and half-width, featuring a classy display and is beautifully made
- It functions as a network bridge, seamlessly integrating with Auralic's Lightning DS platform, offering reliable hardware and app support
- The Aries S1 is equipped with the powerful Tesla G3 streaming platform, offering improved processing and memory capabilities
- It offers versatile connectivity with standard digital inputs/outputs, including AES and supports various streaming services
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for Apple iOS, which may deter Android users
- It does not have built-in WiFi, relying solely on Ethernet connection
- Roon certification may not be immediately available
- The S1 is not a DAC, preamp, nor does it have a headphone output
- The optional PSU S1 power supply is an additional cost
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Auralic Aries S1 is good enough for the Chord Dave, unlike the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- The combination of the S1 with the PSU S1 comes very close to the Aries One, and possibly surpasses it
Takeaway: The Auralic Aries S1 is a well-engineered streaming processor that provides high-quality streaming for audiophiles already invested in a good DAC. It is easy to use, has a stylish design, and integrates seamlessly with various streaming services.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Brings quality streaming to any existing system
- Provides a premium selection of digital outputs
- Has an MA Remote App experience for easy control and integration of streaming services and local storage
- Features a 3.46-inch touchscreen for easy operation and display of music metadata
- Delivers pristine and clean digital data for purists who want a high-end music streamer
Product Considerations
- It is a streamer only, without a DAC or amp, so it should not be confused for an all-in-one solution
- Has a basic on-screen menu system
- Lacks bells and whistles like Bluetooth connectivity; it is exclusively for digital output options
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Node: The Element S has a more extensive selection of digital outputs, but the Node has an internal DAC and analog outs
Takeaway: The Matrix Audio Element S is a great choice for audiophiles who want to add quality streaming to their existing audio system. It delivers clean data and integrates easily with streaming services and local storage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality with a luxurious aluminum body and sleek design
- Serves as a high-quality preamp, streamer, and DAC all in one device
- The DAC utilizes flagship AKM chips with 'Velvet Sound' technology, providing a warmer, richer, and more natural sound compared to the DMP-A6
- User-friendly interface with a responsive touchscreen and a well-designed control app
- Versatile connectivity options, including multiple digital and analog inputs/outputs, and support for various streaming services
Product Considerations
- The preamp section's performance is not on par with the digital streaming and DAC sections
- DSP functions are limited up to 192k sampling rate
- Spotify Connect has a lag in song switching at times
- The HDMI output is dedicated to I2S output, omitting the multichannel output capability of the DMP-A6
- Playlists cannot span music libraries; it is not possible to mix music from an internal SSD with tracks from TIDAL
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs DMP-A6: The DMP-A8 has better resolution, refinement, separation, and bass, sounding more 'analogue', while the A6 sounds brighter, lighter, and drier
- Vs HiFi Rose RS250a: The DMP-A8 sounds better if richness, warmth, and a big soundstage are valued, while the RS250a is preferred if analytical detail and an open top end are most important
- Vs Lumin U2 Mini: As a streamer only, the A8 is about the same as a Lumin U2 Mini but not quite up to the level of a Lumin U2 or HiFi Rose RS130
- Vs Geshelli Labs J2S AK4499 DAC: The sound was noticeably improved
- Vs RME ADI2 Pro: The DMP-A8 was preferable, as it sounded less flat and more three-dimensional in comparison
Takeaway: The DMP-A8 is a well-built and versatile streaming DAC that offers a rich and natural sound, along with a user-friendly interface and plenty of features. It is a great choice for audiophiles looking for an all-in-one solution to elevate their music listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Both an input stage and a galvanically isolated reclocking output stage ensures 100% isolation and noise-free delivery of perfect digital audio signals
- A DC-to-DC converter that is galvanically isolated allows the input and output stages to be completely isolated, allowing each to function as its entity electrically
- PS Audio uses its 'Digital Lens' technology to ensure the DAC gets the best audio data possible by storing data in a variable RAM buffer and sending it to the precision clocks within the AirLens
- The AirLens excels in performance with the I²s connection, delivering musical realism as well or better than any streamer under $5K
- The unit has a smaller frame component
- USB or Toslink inputs are absent
Product Considerations
- The PS Audio AirLens cannot stand toe-to-toe with the HiFi Rose RS-130 when it comes to design or features, as it is a basic box with no display screen
- There isn't a place to hook up a hard drive if one wants to stream stored music, since it is basically a streamer only
- The AirLens does not have a DAC
- It is not for the mainstream-streaming, non-audiophile consumer who uses Spotify and Apple Music, since it does not cater to features that audio enthusiasts will not use, such as AirPlay2, Bluetooth, or a proprietary music management application
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- HiFi Rose RS-130: The Air Lens does the 3D imaging thing better than the HiFi Rose, however, the HiFi Rose has a more meaty—punchy—refined analog kind of sound overall
- EverSolo DMP-A6: The PS Audio Air Lens far excelled above the A6 when it comes to sound quality, as the A6 sounded a little more digital in the treble area with grain and noise
- WiiM Pro Plus: Going from the WiiM Pro Plus streamer into the Denafrips DAC to the Air Lens, there is an increase in bass and energy in the holographic sound stage
- HiFi Rose RS250A, NAD C 700, Naim ND5 XS 2: The HiFi Rose RS250A, the NAD C 700, or even the Naim ND5 XS 2 all have Bluetooth and a DAC in their system, the AirLens does not
Takeaway: The PS Audio AirLens is a music streamer designed to eliminate digital noise and hash and bring an experience unlike most streamers on the market. It's perfect for audiophiles who want a simple, high-quality streamer that delivers exceptional sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Solidly made
- SD-card is easily accessible for swapping operating systems
- Offers many digital links: optical, coaxial, AES, and I2S
Product Considerations
- Does not have an on-board DAC
- Performance is equivalent to the Metrum Acoustics Ambre, which may be a consideration for users familiar with that product
- I2S output is specifically for Sonnet/Metrum products
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Metrum Acoustics Ambre: The Hermes has a different power supply, processing board, casing, and includes a display, with a more purposeful design for audio streaming
Takeaway: The Sonnet Audio Hermes is a well-built streamer with versatile digital connectivity and the flexibility to use different software packages. It is a great addition to a system, especially when paired with other Sonnet/Metrum products.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Quad core ARM-based architecture with multiple regulated power supplies and high-grade clocks
- Solid aluminum chassis with a minimalist look that fits well in a system
- USB detox process cleans up noise on the USB line for a better data signal
- Users can flash it with an operating system of their choice, like MoodeAudio or PiCorePlayer
- Supports bit-perfect CD playback and can rip CDs to lossless FLAC files
Product Considerations
- Included power supply is of poor quality and emits an irritating whistling sound
- Front switches are tiny, fiddly momentary toggle switches that are not nice to use
- AirPlay and Bluetooth toggles are not persistent and are disabled each time the unit is rebooted
- Lacks configurable options for CD ripping, such as setting file format or quality
- Original software image isn't available for download on the Musical Fidelity website, which could be a problem if one chooses to experiment
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Premium competitor to the Box Design range of Pro-Ject Audio Systems
- Compared to the iFi ZEN Stream, AirPlay works perfectly on the MX Stream
Takeaway: The Musical Fidelity MX Stream is a compact network streamer with refined software and a good set of features. It delivers bit-perfect audio and offers flexibility for advanced users, making it a solid choice for streaming music.
Video review
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