I have been playing with my new Squeezebox 2. It has rocked my world.
Prior to this, I had been running a Linux jukebox to a
stereo-link using a cobbled-together concoction of open source software to listen to my FLAC sources. But the stereo-link just wasn't cutting it. It didn't sound much better than my ancient CD player. I was looking for a better DAC, but I didn't want to buy a $600 soundcard. The SB2 is exactly what I have been looking for. It sounds so much better than the stereo-link. Even some of my 1983-era CDs like Canadian Brass and Yes 90125 sound good. No more pre-amp, CD player, or cluster of remote controls for me!
I am running:
FLAC on FreeBSD -> ethernet -> SB2 -> analog -> Trinaural -> Outlaw 755 amp -> VMPS
I can see the gorgeous VFD display from 12 feet away without problems. Slim Devices learned a lesson from Tivo by making their remote control easy to use with different colors and shapes. In fact, I would say that the SB2 does for audio what Tivo did for television (and they both use open source software).
My only negative comment of the SB2 that the highs do sound a bit harsh. Strings sound a little "steely" and trumpets are a bit "brassy". I think I am going to buy the replacement linear power supply with the money I get from selling my pre-amp. That will take some of the harshness off the top end.
I found that I could not stream FLAC over 802.11b. The Slim Devices FAQ says that this is not uncommon. It isn't a problem for me to put my PC in the listening room since my PC is very quiet. I don't want to retrofit 802.11g if I don't have to.
Be on the lookout for a gently used pre-amp at an auction site near you!
