Here’s a tip (for free): keep your eye on Mytek.
You can think of Mytek’s new Empire Streamer DAC ($19,995) as a digital streaming and serving hub, MM/MC phono preamp, and line level preamplifier all in one.
More than just a pretty face, the Empire Streamer houses an 8TB SSD for music storage, an Intel I7-based computing platform that runs Roon server while the Empire Streamer also acts a Roon Endpoint, another separate Ubuntu Linux-based i7 platform for running Mytek’s OS and custom developed software (and future apps) including a neat trick that turns Roon’s typical iOS vertical interface horizontal for the unit’s angled up touch screen display, a host of of linear power supplies, an ESS pro-based DAC, internal re-clocker, noise filtration on the USB input, a headphone amp, and casework, in black or silver, that screams come on, come on, come on, come on. Now touch me, babe. You can also hang a NAS off of one of the Empire Streamer’s Ethernet ports if you have more store music than you can listen to in a lifetime.
The Empire Streamer was on silent display with units expected to be available in the very near future.
I had the opportunity to sit with Mytek’s Michal Jurewicz for over an hour on Sunday to talk, OK Michal spoke and I listened, about the Empire Streamer and upcoming Empire Monoblock Amplifiers ($9,995/ea.) that employ Gallium Nitride transistors in the power output stage. Dressed in a matching Empire-styled chassis, the Empire Monoblocks will pump out 500 Watts of power into 8 Ohms and 1000 Watts into 4.
I had an opportunity to spend time with Mytek’s original Brooklyn Amplifier a few years ago and from what Michal has described about the differences that GanFET technology bring to the sonmic table, I cannot wait to hear the new Empire Monoblocks.
Keep your eye (and ears) on Mytek.
Company Website: Mytek