SOtM sMS-200 Ultra network bridge
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ส.ค. 2024
- There are people that say that, over the last twenty years, no significant developments in audio took place. I know of no better proof of the opposite than the subject of this review, the SOtM sMS-200 Ultra network bridge.
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I have no reason to think I will ever experience a product review more enjoyable than this one...so I am going to watch it again. Thank you Hans.
Wow, thanks
Hey Hans,, the Ultra is absolutely a truly FANTASTIC piece of kit. I can't stop listening! My collection is totally new to me now due to the Ultra. Thanks for your review and pointing me in the right direction. I could not be happier!! Cheers!!
I know😁
Wow, never seen you like that Hans. Great review.
Thank you Hans for a very interesting, if somewhat ebullient, review of the sMS-200 Ultra update. I hope you be doing a review of the newly revised Sonore microrendu Ultra as well. These two "Ultra" products seem to be tailor made for comparison. I continually look forward to and learn from your detailed insights of audio and electrical engineering technologies.
+George Peredy I have requested a review sample from Sonore. Waiting for a response.
I’ve now been running the sms-200 ultra special edition powered by the sPs-500 and connected to the Brooklyn DAC for a week now. Wonderful is an understatement. Audioquest connections with a USB Carbon. The system is all You’ve said it was Hans, thank you. Tonight I tried a USB to SPDIF converter made by Schiit, the Eitr which is rather handsome and well constructed but did nothing for my setup #1. I’m running Roon 1.5 and music from the network burned in the AITT format via Mac Mini. I’ve started a firestorm on a forum I’ve been on for some time, some people just can’t grasp the idea of a blacker darker background with no noise floor at all. All good fun, thanks again Hans
Nick Carrozza Hey Nick. Where did you order the special edition? I'm think upgrade to sms200 ultra from allo usbridge. I just wonder what option did you chose with the 200 ultra? with masterclock connector or not? also I saw one with the ethernet switch mod. The price adds up really quick. thanks
LETS ROCK Crux Audio, Kamal will take great care of you. Plenty helpful and very good service. I didn’t go with the erhernet switch, as you said it adds up quick.
Nick Carrozza thanks so much for the reply.Did you end up buying the neo special edition? with masterclock connecter or not (i don't really know I need this connector or not). Thanks again
LETS ROCK no, I didn’t order the neo and I didn’t think the master clock would be required as I don’t plan on multiple DACs working together in a multichannel system. Enjoy!
I loved this review! Thanks for producing your content!
Hello Hans, excellent review, i have been enamoring this device some quite some time, you pulled the trigger for me with this one, a question, are you using a "Network Switch" for these devices?
Loved this one! Emotions...
That’s what good music does.
I just connected my new Sbooster MKII (Newest version) to my Mytek Brooklyn DAC, In a word, WOW. I was in no way prepared for the improvement I was about to hear, especially cold out of the box! Bass jumped up and slapped me! Definition and clarity have increased significantly. Its all connected to the SOtM sms-200 Ultra, so it wasn’t hurting for quality sound to start with. Im just in shock! Sbooster says theres a 100 hour break-in period, hard to believe it’ll get better. Just thought I’d drop you a line and say thanks Hans. Can’t wait for your review, hope I didn’t spoil it for you.
Perhaps late to the party. I recently purchased the Sotm sMS-200 Ultra with the Sotm power supply. Although this combo is more expensive than my DAC (Arcam Irdac 2) I am indeed extremely surprised by the level of detail this unit delivers. The harshness I encountered in the high frequencies is gone but what surprised me most is the level of low(er) frequencies detail and the spatial information this unit delivers. I am indeed very surprised although I was very sceptical at first. Experimenting since 2004 with digital (computer) audio this is the first device that brings my (FLAC) ripped CD collection up to the level it deserves. I am finally relieved that the time I spend ripping my CD collection was not in vain. Considering now to retire my CD player out of my audio system.
....told you so😁. I appreciate you couldn't believe it at first. Therefore it's great you report back here for others to learn.
Eric, where are your computer, DAC, and SMS200 Ultra placed in your system? Do you connect your computer to the SMS200 then to the Arcam DAC?
Hi. Do you think that having an additional external clock adds benefit over the SOtM ultra alone? In other words, do external clocks really improve the sound quality? Great video!
Hi Hans,
Love your channel. Simple question....should I expect an improvement by adding a network audio adapter to my audio chain? MY setup is such that I go direct from Roon/Rock/NUC>ISO>USBDAC. I had thought, the more direct a path, the better....but maybe not.
Hans, Great review. I have a question. I use for stereo listening Anthem Statement D2. If I decided to pursue this product (SoTM), would you recommend to get an external DAC or Statement's D2 DAC will be good enough?
I have no hands on experience with the Anthem and I don’t know you so I can’t possibly say. Why not buy the SOtM - you won’t regret that - and go from there.
Hi Hans, does the tracks stored in a usb hard drive that is connected to usb input of the ultra appear in the Roon player? Thanks Priyange
Hi Hans, Thanks a lot for your review! I've got two questions (1) Can you elaborate a bit more on the difference between the BOTW and SPS500 power supply? Based on your comments the difference must be small, but I guess there is still some audible difference as a power supply has such a tremendous impact on the overall sound characteristics. And (2) what device would be a good match to convert the USB signal to SPDIF (my DAC has only SPDIF input)
Nice review Hans. You know there is an ultraRendu out there now as well...would love to know how this compares in your opinion. Hopefully at some point you will do a review of that one as well.
There's also a new Signature Rendu but that one is quite expensive comparatively.
I will try but Jesus wasn't too happy last year after I said that the original SOtM sMS-200 was a tat better and cheaper.....
Hans did this reviewed sMS-200ultra was sent with the Master Clock added or just the standard 200ultra?
Hello Hanz! Is auralic aries daes the same work as SOtM sMS-200? Are they essentially network player without a dac?
Beste review 👌🏼
Thanks
Amazing review, is this all still relevent or out of date?. Should one lean toward opticalrendu or is 200 ultra still worth buying?
I just received a shiny new SOtM sMS-200 Ultra Neo. I've dropped it in place of my Aries Mini. Straight out of the box with the wall wart psu I'm shocked! So much detail! I'll get a better psu next month. I'm burning it in in my office setup with a Musical Fidelity V90 DAC, can't wait to connect it to my Rega DAC-R in my sitting room setup!
It's only just begun.... let us know what you think in, say, two weeks
+The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel Hi Hans. It’s been about three weeks now, and two of those with a sps-500 psu. They are both well burned in now I think. I am at a loss for words to be quite honest, such is the staggering quality of the music that I am listening to. The sheer detail that I have been presented with is utterly amazing and the finesse! Vocals are spectacular, percussion is incredible with amazing attack. I am hearing things in albums I have been listening to for 40 years that I have never heard before. I don’t think I would have decided to buy this if it wasn’t for your review. Thanks!
Hi Hans, please excuse my ignorance... how do you connect this device to a receiver? I have never seen anything like it.
I have one. You need a DAC with a usb input
Hans, thanks for the "emotional" review! Have you tried the tX-USBultra (USB regenerator) in addition to the sMS-200ultra and sPS-500?
No I haven't. You bunch are insatiable😶
Lol! You bet! So much insatiable that the three things are now in my rack! Too bad I sold my Hugo and waiting for a Holo Audio KTE Spring R2R DAC
Ok, I'll review it next month then🤤
Hi Hanz, informative as usual. Have you tried the PS Audio LANrover yet, at 650 UK pounds it seems a decent buy and gets very good reviews.
I have tried to get my hands on a review sample. Didn't manage. Sorry.
Hey Hans, how does the Rel Britannia B2 sound in your system 1? What made you choose it over other Subs? Does it go down to 12hz as I have read? I downloaded your Digital Audio book, its a great read for those like me wanting to know more about digital music.
The B2, connected to the loudspeaker terminals of the amp, integrates very well with the loudspeakers I have and have had. It goes very deep but I don't know if 12 Hz is right. I thought it was 16 Hz. Who cares, it goes very deep.
Hello Hans, great review! Did you compare it to a Macmini with a proper optimisation? (Uptone MMK kit, good power supply, SDCard boot, Audirvana etc..) And do you think this kind of Mac mini can compete to any networked audio adapter?
It is funny; every time I find clear sound improvements I am asked if I have tried XYZ too. If I had, there would have been a video on it. My experiences with the Mac Mini are with all audiophile player software, including Audirvana- up to the current version - with a DAC directly connected to the USB output and later using a NAA like the Sonore microRendu and both SOtM products. Modifying a MacMini is not within the boundaries of my channel. Ruining a Raspberry Pi board of € 50, ok, but a € 600 to €800 MacMini.... I did have a SSD in the MacMini though.
Hans, how you doing? I'm planning to use my mac mini as server to SMS-200 Ultra, without router. Direct connection. I will connect modem LAN to Ethernet Mac Mini Port and to SMS-200 a thunderbolt-LAN adapter. What do you think?
I'm very fine, thank you. I'm not sure this is a wise choice. (and I do know that I'm really not sure). Perhaps the SOtM tX-USBultra - for as far as I can see now the USB input version of the sMS-200 Ultra - might be a better choice if you don't want/need a network. I'll try to review it sometime later. But if you're handy enough to set it up, the sMS-200 Ultra 'direct approach' might work fine.
Hans, have you listened differences in sound quality between your mac mini and Nuc when using a NAA as sms200ultra? And have you tried power the Nuc with a LPS? Have you listened differences in SQ?
Yes I have but I should warn you that although such a setup is relatively easy to install, it could be prone to all kinds of small problems that might influence the sound quality. In my setup I don't hear any difference between a MacMini and a NUC (I have both a NUC6i3 and a NUC 7i7). I also don't hear any difference when I use a 19VDC sBooster LPS. But the distance between the Roon server and the sMS-200Ultra is at least 10 meter (30ft) so any HF interference is already lost in the network. The advantages of a NUC over a Mac are: it's cheaper, you can install Roon Rock that is completely dedicated to serve Roon Core and - provided you use Rock - the NUC is not used for anything else (since that is impossible). Furthermore it is virtually impossible to do destructive modification to the OS, it updates from the user interface on your tablet, smartphone or (other) computer you use to control Roon and the OS can even be reinstalled from that. What might improve the sound is to power the router or switch using a LPS, use a high quality CAT cable near your stereo and sometimes a galvanic separation might also help. If you place the computer Roon Core or Rock is running on very close to your stereo might give you other experiences.
I have been using my sms-200 Ultra until tonight, when trying to start Squeezlite I get the message "no sound card." Roon also does not see my SMS-200.
Nothing has changed since using the 200 yesterday.
What could be wrong?
Contact your dealer or SOtM. I can't do support, too little time. Sorry.
Dear Hans
Will an external word clock improve/effect the sound in your current setup? The Brooklyn DAC has an word clock input. There seems to be an wide array of options available, from the more reasonable priced MUTEC MC-3+ Smart Clock to the state of the art products from dCS.
Best regards
Andreas
I haven't tried and I wonder if making things more complex will offer further improvement.
Hans, I'm stuck with my iQAudio solution for some time yet (and enjoying it immensely fwiw) but this is particularly interesting given that one of the toys you reviewed a week or so before the SMS-200U was Meridian's *20K* Ultra DAC : I'm not going to ask you to plug A into B, but we both know such requests are inevitable ;)
I had the Ultra DAC on loan some months ago, so I can't.....
No probs - obviously I got to that vid later than I thought. I knew Meridian werent likely to leave review samples in anyone's hands for too long (unless of course you write for Stereophile, in which case you can hang onto gear indefinitely ;))
Dear Hans, thank you for this detailed review of SMS-200 Ultra. in terms of sound quality would be interesting to compare it with similar devices which I would call network transport. Among those I wold select Auralic Aries, Aurender NH-200. Initially SMS-200 Ultra looks very attractive, but if we will add power supply and storage.... Auralic also requires external power supply for better sound. in any case those three products are direct competitors and would be interesting to compare voice quality a a main criteria.
You are absolutely right but I depend on the manufacturers/distributors to lend me a review sample. And Auralic has a new Aries that is rather more expensive, they are not interested in a review of the old model.
chut... don't say that too much loud but sotm sms 2OOultra is much better than Auralic Aries
Any reason why in your main system you chose not to use the matching sMS-200 power supply for the Ultra and instead use an sbooster? Cheaper or better?
I already had the sBooster and the SOtM did not sound better. There are other differences thought since the SOtM can be set to 4 different voltages and is more pleasing to the eye, especially when combined with the sMS-200 Ultra.
hello hans ,thank you for your reviews .one question ,i usually stream audio(roon) directly from an Imac to a lyngdorf tdai 2170 that has his own dac card .when using a sotm sms 200 is it possible to listen to the computer audio and roon whithout changing the input of the amp..To be more precise i can do it actually turning off roon and ,turning on youtube on the computer my amp has only one usb in on the dac card .Thank for your answer merry christmas to you .
No, I don’t think that is possible.
Hi Hans. Any recommendation of what voltage version to choose eg if powered by a Sbooster?
I use it set at 12 volts
A fascinating review, Hans, thank you! In my setup, I am driving Dynaudio Focus XD active loudspeakers that have an internal DAC that is very good but they only provide access to it via a digital S/PDIF coax input, not via USB. As the SOtM sMS-200 Ultra has only USB output, I would need an external USB to S/PDIF converter to make it work as a streamer in my setup. Have you experimented with that situation or can you recommend converters that would be on par with the sMS-200 Ultra? Thanks!
You rather consider a networked audio adaptor that provides SPDIF directly, like the Magna: th-cam.com/video/Gb1sv5k5QkM/w-d-xo.html
Very inspriring. Thanks!
Hans: have you compared the sms-200 Ultra with the ultraRendu? Very interested in your opinion!
No, I haven't. Sorry. I did apply for a review sample though.
Jesus doesn't reply any mail, so I don't think the mR Ultra will be on review here. You draw your own conclusions.
Hello Hans
Thank you for a very enlightening (if dithyrambical) review of the SOtM SMS200-Ultra .
Now I was wondering if you had a thought on the NATIV VITA streamer/NAA versus the SOtM, from specs/price they seem to run in the same league (although I wonder about components sourcing and software maturity/stability), BUT what about in-fine acoustic result ? I would love to read or hear you on this. Many thanks. JLT
Apart from the price I see little similarities. An NNA is a very ‘light’ computer so there is little noise. The Vita even has a screen and thus very noisy screen drivers aboard. I have requested a review sample loaner but that hasn’t been granted.......
There goes Nativ's credibility, too bad for them.....
Also, I came across your 2013 article on "native DSD DACs", one of my favorite topics these days: I checked some of the very top brands on your list against their own data sheets (for current products) as well as their audio conversion chip suppliers' data sheets (Sabre etc), and realized that most of them call "native" what actually is DoP (e.g. Mytek, Chord....). How relevant is "pure" 1-bit processing for musicality of the end-product ? Wolfson, Cirrus Logic, and AKM have implemented chips which perform true native DSD conversion..... Can one expect to get closer to the true analogue sound and finally be rid of all these digital artifacts our ears have gotten used to these past 30 years ? Your comments are most welcome.
Sorry but what's incorrect is your comparison of both the Vita and the sMS-200Ultra. These are two completely different beasts. The sMS-200ULtra does only a small part of what the Vida does, namely providing a very good usB signal that is sent to it by software on another device. It does it extremely well and you can't expect the Vita - that offers all these functions in one device - to offer the same high level. If this is effectively true, I can't say since I have not reviewed the Vita. But the comparison is not fair. As far as data sheets are concerned: it's the same as with race cars: te engine spect do matter but a good engine alone doesn't make a good race car. Unfortunately audio equipment - like race cars - has to be judged in practice.
Hans, you may have answered this question and I missed it so here it is. Do you leave your DAC and Network player on all the time or do you turn it off nightly?
I'll leave the network player and DAC switched on, the rest is switched off when not in use.
In Bubbleupnp mode, is it possible to send Tidal from the mobile via Chromecast? Is it a quality option?
I know little about cellphones but I don’t think so. Chrome cast isn’t DNLA.
Hello Hans!
One streamer that tops out the Sotmo -200 Ultra is the dCS Network Bridge with even higher clarity and resolution that you should make a review of would be great.
Best Regards
Fredrik
At three times the price it better be superior. And it will be, I am sure. I will not review it for I have promised myself to do equipment under € 2000 only. That's already far more than I can cover.
Hi Hans, and thanks for your fast answer.
I meant more that you could use the dCS Network Bridge as reference benchmark to your less expensive streamers you have tested. Maybe one day some will be better and some will be worse.
I am pretty sure that the dCS distributor will lend out one for you.
Have a great Christmas and a happy new year
// Fredrik
I am in pursuit of upgrading my intel nuc celeron running daphile... but at this point i m not sure if one should invest on a network streamer or music server. Which one of these provides better sound?
Please watch th-cam.com/video/n26CMGX_yrk/w-d-xo.html
Just started following your reviews - very informative and well researched! In your opinion do the sound improvements also apply to share play content - for example Apple TV to Sotm ultra i.e making this a ‘reference’ airplay receiver? As I am sure you are aware, Apple TV resamples to 48khz, so am looking for a better solution. Lots of other receivers out there, my other option could be my TV’s toslink and the through a Wyred4Sound remedy since Apple TV 4K has no toslink. Thanks
Could you please rephrase your question, I am not sure I understand you
Sure thing - thanks Hans - I have an Apple TV 4k, no spdif out! So I am considering sotm ultra and using it as an airplay receiver. As far as I am aware Apple TV resamples everything to 48kHz, instead of 44.1. Because of this will the SOTM Utlra still provide 'reference' sound, or is it potentially not worth it in my case and I would be better off with a a cheaper solution, e.g. Wyred4sound Remedy from the TV (which does have spdif, but lots of jitter!) or a simple Apple Airport to another DAC (airport seems to have decent J-test). thanks
I seemed to remember that the resampling only took place when the Airplay device supported only 48 kHz. So I tried. Sending 44.1 kHz music to the sMS-200 Ultra as Airplay station gave 44.1 kHz on the DAC. So no resampling took place.
I know you say not to ask what to buy but I have an opportunity to purchase a smTo-200Ultra which I will buy nut i can only pick one option out of two. The first is the special edition or the other with the modded ethernet switch. Would the modded ethernet switch help with timing and therefore be the better option vs the silver wires and EMI absorber sheet. Please help, no matter which I opt for Im sure will be a great improvement over my current setup. Thanks Hans
Go for the sMS200Ultra
Hans, very profound and objective reviews. Pleasure to watch. How would you compare the sMS-200 ultra to entry level Aurenders like N100? Price-wise, Sotm (sMS-200 ultra+ the power device) is already closing the gap:). I would appreciate your opinion. Thanks:)
I haven't reviewed the Audrender, so I can't comment on that.
Can you run the SMS-200 ultra without a computer (NUC)? If yes, will it operate as a ROON core server?
No it will not work like a ROON core server, That would need at least an Intel i3 processor. The doesn't need to be a NUC, any other computer (Windows, Linux or Mac) will do. Yuu can use the SMS-200Ultra as an MPD player, comparable to the core used by Volumio.
Hello Hans,
I'm currently using Atoll DAC100SE which is fed with signal through USB by Synology DS116 (DS116 is powered by stock SMPS PSU).
As far as I understand DS116 i not the best source of USB signal. I want to upgrade and I am considering few options :
1) buy linear PSU for DS116
2) buy SOTM SMS-200 to feed DAC100SE with USB signal
3) buy Auralic Aries Mini to feed DAC100SE with USB or SPDIF through COAX
4) buy USB bridge like SINGXER SU-1 (I really like Audio Station app because it's really good)
Which solution will give best results in Your opinion ? I think best option is 2 or 3.
best regards
Michael
Thanks Hans, I was just hoping on an educated guess, no more. EMI bLanket to help with noise and the use of silver wires vs copper or a modded ethernet hub. I guess I may have to toss a coin but also thought that the modded hub would help with timing better.
Sorry but I don’t do educated guesses, I lack the education 🤫
Hans, how would you compare the SOtM sMS-200 Ultra with the Sonore microRendu or the new Signature Rendu SE? Are these comparable devices?
This is my review of the Sonore microRendu th-cam.com/video/2XRi9utNBl4/w-d-xo.html and this of the SOtM sMS-200 th-cam.com/video/TV-FvRF9KGA/w-d-xo.html. I like the sMS-200 a tat better and it is at lower price. Now if you watch the video's, you might get the idea how I think about the differences between these two and the Ultra. I haven't reviewed the Signature Rendu SE so I can't comment on that.
Thanks Hans! I didn't check your review of the SOtM sMS-200 before asking. Very good comparison and thanks for your personal opinion about the two devices. Now it would be interesting, how the Signature Rendu SE will compare vs. the Ultra. Flagship vs. Flagship. ;-) As far I understand, there is already a high quality power supply built into the Signature Rendu SE.
Hi Hans. I am asking for your opinion. Do you think this audio adaptor can help with Audiolab MDAC+ ?
absolutely
Love your reviews and I was looking for advice sMS-200 neo vs ultra. I have an Intel Nuc server with standard power supply (not optimal of course) running Roon with good USB cable running directly into and my DAC: Luxman DA-250 (not a Roon endpoint so I need a digital transport, neo vs ultra). Preamp Anthem STR, 2 Essoteric A80 mono blocks, Apogee Duettas, 2 JL E112 subs. My basic question is: will see much difference between the sMS-200 neo vs ultra since my Luxman DAC probably has a good USB clock?
In one word: YES
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel I was afraid you were going to say to go with the upgrade. Now I need to save my allowance for a few more months LOL. Thanks Hans!
Is it necessary a expensive LAN cable to achieve better sound quality?
Necessary not, but many claim sound improvements. I haven't tried yet.
Is there not a limit for sound improvements? Listening what some guys claim, you can improve your system to sound better than a live performance in the room... I´ve seen a chain with six devices, each them feed by a linear power supply, between the transport and the DAC...
I am purchasing the ultra but which, the ethernet upgrade or the special addition?
I only reviewed the standard version, zo I can't tell.
Ecstatic or what!
To say the least.
Hey Hans, I have bitten the bullet (and there will be no food in the cupboard for a few months,lol) and purchased an sMS-200ultra and sPS-500 power supply. Purely on your non recommendation recommendation.....lol
Sir if my choice of good sound is a well balanced sound for entire audio frequency and not just good midrange only.which type of dacs are better fpga dacs , r2r ladder dacs ,or high speed sabre chip or similar dacs.since you do not like giving buying advice but suppose i ask like this between the mytek brooklyn chord quetest and holospring level 3 which will give me a well balanced sound in lows mids and highs.i do have a very good setup for stereo and dedicated room with acoustic treatment and excellent drivers.
Please watch th-cam.com/video/kfJYHhONdSI/w-d-xo.html
Well Hans you mabe want to try the sms-200 ultra with the tx-usb ultra reclocker and a mutec master clock you will probably faint with that.
my wife will, for sure
would the sotm be needed with a g2.1 or would tha be a redundant addition?
They both function as network bridge so, indeed, the SOtM is not needed when you use a G2.1.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel What about the use of the Up tone Ethergen switch connected between the ehernet socket and the Auraljc G2.1? Since you fit thus in your setup for the G1 would you still need to use the Ethergen switch while using the G2.1 to achieve low noise signal entering the G2.1? Doesn't seem Auralic have added any such filtering switch in the G2.1 to deal with this distortion issue.
AND CAN WIRELESS sig al bypass this distortion from wired connections to G2.1?
Hi Hans: Your videos have helped me immensely and I've started my computer audio journey as a result. I am subscribed on Patreon and have downloaded your book also. Thanks so much for all that you do! I had some questions for whenever you get a moment.
(1) My sonic Transporter i5 & router are in a different room from my SMS 200 Ultra Neo. How does your SoTM SMS 200 Ultra receive data? Looks like you have a wired ethernet connection. My apartment does not - but I can use a patch box and a switch to set it up. Is it worth the effort in terms of AQ, compared to a good wifi set up? Any thoughts on use of MOCA 2.0 for audio purposes?
(2) Any downsides to using one power supply + a splitter to power two devices (e.g. SMS 200 Ultra + Tx booster or SMS 200 Ultra + Myth Brooklyn), as long as voltage requirements are the same?
(3) If a device (say SMS 200 Ultra) is available in 9V and 12V versions, is there an AQ difference based on voltage levels? Some people seem to be saying the 12V one sounds better. Others say the higher heat levels at 12V mean the 9V should be used. Would you have a perspective?
Also, I wanted to share that the SME 200 Ultra is being discontinued and replaced by the SME 200 Ultra Neo.
Thanks!!
1) over ethernet network. The sMS-200 Ultra has no wifi and if it had, I would only use it if there would be no other option.
2) I haven't tested that but I couldn't think why that would be a problem. SOtM even sells a splitter cable.
3) I haven't tested this so I can't say.
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel Thank you, Hans! That was very helpful.
Hi Hans, Thanks for the review! Did you had/have the opportunity to compare the difference between a NAS connected storage vs USB connected storage? (USB stick or USB drive directly connected with the Ultra). Curious if this would make a difference, since there are no network cables, switches with their power supply involved?
I don't have a NAS but I have compared a share on a MacMini - that at that moment functioned as a kind of BAS - to the USB3 drive connected directly to the IntelNUC Roon ROCK server. I did not test a drive connected to the SOtM since the drive has a switching mode power supply and I don't want that close to audio. Furthermore I use Roon and thus the SOtM as a networked audio adaptor and not a server.
BTW, why is everyone always asking for things I didn't and can't test😀
Ah thanks, I also use Roon (and Roon only). Do I understand you correctly that on the SOtM Ultra, Roon can't work with the NAA attached storage over USB? I thought a NAA would also show up in de Roon settings/storage options. That's too bad then, I was hoping to eliminate a butch of network gear in de audiochain. Did the USB storage directly on the Roon Rock make any difference?
You do need a rapid computer to run the Roon Core on. You can use the hard disk in that computer - or connected to that computer - or a NAS (which I consider is lesser option). You could use the Ultra as a total streamer with a hard disk connected over USB when you use it running the LMS or one of the DLNA server programs. But not with Roon. Roon is your choice since it is fast despite far more metadata and other functions that the other options. That speed can only be achieved using a computer that has an Intel i3 and an SSD drive as system disk. That can't be done on the Ultra.
Thank you very much Hans, much appreciated!
I'm sure I've heard designers such as Chord's Rob Watts claim that their DACs can perform equally well with any bit-perfect source. If that is so, what exactly is the Ultra doing? Is it reducing noise in some way?
I spoke to Rob and he said to me that he preferred the optical input. Since the TosLink connector is the most limited in bandwidth of all options, this seems to contradict what you say. My personal experience with my Hugo conforms this.
The full implementation of the Hugo architecture lies in Hugo TT. Hugo 1 was designed primarily around the dimensions of its chassis and since its chassis was quite small compromises had to be made somewhere. RF isolation and EMI suppression were not implemented as good as it could have been, Hugo TT should be the baseline. But even then, cleaner sources can and do improve the sound of Chord and all other dacs.
I know and I live the Hugo as you could have seen in my review. I was just answering Neville's remark.
Yes, I've previously owned the Hugo and now own V2. Btw, I was very impressed by your review Hans .
I wonder how units like this compare to a RPI4 running Ropieee? Connected to a DAC with an excellent USB implementation (I.e. RME ADI2 FS) I suspect very little. Does anyone have any experience?
I am afraid you misjudge the difference.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Interestingly, I have friends that have told me the Ultra 200 is comparable to a NUC PC in sound quality. Obviously, as with all things audio, outcomes are subjective with bias, systems and psychoacoustics influencing outcomes. I really believe the DAC you use will play a big part in equalising USB source jitter differences. For instance, I use an RME ADI 2, which has excellent jitter rejection. A DAC with a less than ideal USB implementation might benefit from a more expensive source.
Hi Hans. I enjoyed your enthusiasm in this video, and your heel goede Engels. However, I am none the wiser what an audio adaptor is actually for! I will have to do some research... (Note I use a Bluesound Node 2i, which presumably is a combination of audio adaptor, streamer and DAC. I’m guessing here. I only stream music, so I don’t think an audio adapter is something I need, but I guess my uncertainty highlights the problems of getting up to speed with digital technology)
You might want to watch this video: th-cam.com/video/G9EreotBL6c/w-d-xo.html
How does it sound musically compared to the Linn Akurate?
I haven't reviewed the Akurate, so I can't say.
Thank you Hans have you compared to any mainstream high end streamer so we can get a ballpark idea what level of sound quality this machine is at
@@LeoShoSilva Together with a Dutch colleague I compared the SOtM/Mytek/sBooster/AQ-Diamond combination to a Meridian 808v3. We found them equal in quality but preferred the slightly brigher sound of the combo. Aslo see th-cam.com/video/2XRi9utNBl4/w-d-xo.html, th-cam.com/video/K0lbdeDS-FM/w-d-xo.html and th-cam.com/video/juKqFso3nTw/w-d-xo.html.
Can it do Spotify / Spotify connect?
The SOrM is a network BRIDGE, not a streamer. You need to use software on your computer, tablet or smartphone that can do Spotify and have it send it to the SOtM using protocols like DLNA or Airplay.
Ik gebruik de SOtM sMS-200 ultra enige tijd , is idd zeer goed . Combinatie met DENAFRIPS dac : beter vind je niet . En al zeker niet voor die prijs . Het is maar een hint Hans ....
Hi Hans,
I'm preparing to get a SMS-200 as a roon endpoint. My dac, bryston BDA-3 reclocks all incoming signal and also discards the incoming USB power. Do you think:
1. the sms-200 Ultra with it's added clock card is useless in this case and I could just get the original sms-200? Not sure how your dac handles incoming USB signal since for you this was such a significant difference.
2. Given the same budget would I gain more from the sms-200 ultra with its included power supply or the non ultra with a proper power supply. (If it makes any sense for me to get the ultra at all, for which of course I could get a PS later)
Thank you for any feedback, as I can't listen to any of these without purchasing them.
I don’t know the Bryston, so I can’t say. Sorry.
Thanks Hans! Which of these would you say produces the best result: Sms-200 (non ultra) with a proper power supply and the Ultra with the wall wart?
The latter
Thanks a lot Hans!
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel Thanks to your reviews I ended up getting the original SMS-200 Ultra for a good price and then upgrading it to the "NEO" version - which is basically a capacitor change. Liked the Ultra and like it even more in the "NEO" version. Also eventually ended up grabbing a used S-Booster - great combo and thank you for your work!
Hi there Hans!
First i want to thank you for the really well made reviews. I have a big respect for you.
You made me want the sms 200 ultra so much and i got a good deal on ebay for:
Sms 200 ultra neo + sbooster mki
I think i want to sell the sbooster mki and upgrade to the mkii or the sotm sps500
I do not understand if the comparison in this review is between the sps500 to the sbooster mki or mkii
I do not use it with any usb drive, i will only use with roon
If i get the s booster mkii i will swap the fuse to SR orange too
I will love to here your opinion on this since I know you are using the sms 200 ultra neo too
Thank you and stay safe!
Changing from a veery good power supply to a slightly better one will not bring much improvement. There is a slight improvement but at relatively high cost.
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel got it! Thank you for the response
Hans, hope you can help me out. So the SMS-200 ultra does Not connect directly to my Mac Mini but on the same network? Correct? I can have my external hard drive and Tidal on my Mac Mini? Is this the right and best configuration with the tools I have. I have the Brooklyn DAC which should connect directly to the sms-200 ultra. So the Brooklyn and sms-200 ultra are connected and the Mac Mini is connected via router (network) . I just want to do this once and get the best possible sound from my gear. Would you please help me (and I sure many others) out? Thanks so much.
You are correct that the sMS-200 Ultra is connected to the Mac Mini over the local network. The generic name is Networked Audio Interface (NAI) and is affectively a (extremely clean) USB output at distance. But you need software that can work with a NAI. The sMS-200 Ultra offers a number of protocols, like Roon's RAAT protocol, the Squeezebox protocol, DLNA, Airplay and HQPlayer NAA. Unfortunately the Tidal app itself does not support any NAI protocol. Luckily there are ways around it: I use Roon, not only for my own music but also for Tidal and both are nicely integrated so I normally don't even realise where the music comes from. If you look for a free solution, you should install Logitech Media Server from www.mysqueezebox.com/download and enable Squeezelite on the sMS-200 Ultra. Now open System preferences on the Mac and click Logitech Media Server. Set the location of the music, create or login to a Logitech account and click on Advanced settings on the Advanced tab. There select Pluins and install the Tidal plugin. Then start the Web Remote control from the System Preferences and enter your Tidal Credentials. Then you're set to go. Then start saving money for Roon😉
The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel This setup sounds incredible right out of the box as you’ve said. Wow! Thanks for what you do, now we’re both spoiled with superb audio!
Yep, I'm trying to get everyone hooked on audio and then I strike👿🤑
My hard-drive is connected to my Mac Mini but the SOTM doesn’t see it, I have no personal library. Shouldn’t I be able to go this route without directly connecting the hard-drive to the sms-200 ultra? I couldn’t find the settings for the ultra to find my music. Can you help? Txs so much!
Reed the post above here on how to install Logitech Media Server. When you come to the part where you start the web remote control, select the SOtM in the top right corner,, directly left from the Logitech logo.
Hi Hans
I took your advice and bought the SMS-200Ultra. It is connected to my IFI PRO IDSD DAC.
Wow. I am very happy. It is sound so much better than direct connection to Windows 10 computer.
My system is now Sms-200ultra and IFI PRO IDSD and EtherRegen. All are connected to Mutec Ref-10....
Real good SQ!
Will adding TX-USBULTRA improve it even further ? What do you think?
I haven’t tried, but I don’t think so
@@TheHansBeekhuyzenChannel
You said in other review of yours that adding TX-USBultra after SMS200Ultra can improve SQ by 30%... Am I wrong?
Why do not you expect improvement in my configuration?
Hans, wow what an improvement the SotmSMS200 with S booster made to my system then I added an Ideon Audio 3R USB Renaissance Redriver / Reclocker and wow up to another level clear clean and detailed I do not know if you have used a reclocker after the SMS200 but it does make a difference. is that on par with the SMS200 ultra well I cannot say perhaps you can.
I use Cambridge Audio into a CAV A 8 big amp driving maggies. Cables by Anticables and Audio Sensibility
Thanks for this review. Question: If I were to use the sMS not directly connected to my main router, but to the LAN port of a wifi extender, should that jeopardize the performance of the sMS? (considering the Wifi connection works fast and perfectly)
It al depends on how well your setup functions. Even 284 kHz/ 24 bit only needs 18.4 Kbit/s so bandwidth wise there should be no problem.
No, its not available its a preorder, I can’t imagine anything sounding better!. Everything seems to reclock so I don’t see why Id want to reclock again. Of course not an engineer either. Enjoy and have fun.
Hans,
Have you ever listened to the Cambridge Audio Azur 851N audio player? I am anxious to get your opinion on this device compared to the SoTM 200 Ultra. It appears to be a great product and isn't too expensive. I am sold (marketing) on their algorithm for regenerating/upscaling the input audio wave. I haven't listened to it but thought you would be the best person to review and compare this product to eh 200 ultra. Crutchfield has these and they have a decent return policy.
No, I haven't
Steven Dean - the sMS-200 Ultra isn’t a plastic box either :)
The main problem with Cambridge Audio players in my opinion is their playback control app, it's clunky it doesn't even allow for fast forwarding of tracks! and it doesn't have internal indexing of files, so finding a right music is a pain in the ass, also it doesn't have Roon support, otherwise it is great device, but because of these shortcomings I think SoTm Sms 200 + DAC is a better option
Hans, can you stream MQA thou the Ultra?
Yes, of course. Any bit perfect streamer can, even the original Squeezebox from 10 years ago. As long as there is no volume control or other DSP done to the audio. So, yes, the Ultra can and since it doesn't have any DSP and thus works bit perfect, it will always work perfectly with (and without) MQA.
Hans - you can only stream MQA if you can access MQA before it goes through the sMS-200, and the only accessible gateway is via Roon or Audirvana - you can’t access MQA via LMS for example - correct me if I am wrong.
Hi Hans, I ended up buying one of these based on your review. It is a great sounding streamer and I love the sound of it. I do have one issue though wondering if you have or have solved. With my Microrendu, I was always able to pause or stop a track, and switch the USB output to another DAC, and then start the track again after a few seconds. This made it easier to evaluate different DACs. With the SOtM I don't seem to be able to do that. I have to reboot the unit to get it to recognize the new DAC, which is quite painful. I'm using BubbleUPNP as my server/control software, so not sure if that's my issue or not. Any advice would be appreciated.
I don’t think I have that problem but I can’t try it now for I am away from home the coming weeks. Sound wise you should try Logitech media server and set the SOtM to squeezebox emulation.
Hi. Do you think that having an additional external clock adds benefit over the SOtM ultra alone? In other words, do external clocks really improve the sound quality? Great video!
I haven't tried so I can't say for sure. But I doubt an external clock will make big changes to the sound. The clock in the Ultra is of very high quality and if you add an external clock, that would need to be even better. I wonder if that's achievable. Again, I didn't try so it's no more than an educated guess.
Thank you very much for your reply. As in your video on Tweaking my network audio interface, sometimes adding things that cost more do not add appreciably improved benefits.
Sometimes adding yet another improver might even lead to poorer results (in general).