Audiolab 9000N

The range-topping 9000N is a slick and sophisticated performer

Audiolab has become a go-to brand for us when it comes to affordable music streamers. Based on the Play-Fi streaming platform, the company's offerings have typically delivered a balanced and insightful performance while being easy to use. The introduction of the range-topping 9000N marks a shift in ambition; it is pitched at a properly premium price, and with a change in streaming platform to one from high-end specialist, Lumin.

Some may wonder why Audiolab couldn't just make its own streaming platform, but developing and then maintaining one (as new feature requirements arise) is such a complex and expensive task that most hi-fi companies prefer to buy-in ready-made solutions from specialist suppliers.

Lumin is a good choice, as it is firmly established as a manufacturer of well-regarded premium streaming products but also deals with a client list that includes prestigious brands such as TEAC and its high-end offshoot, Esoteric.

Modern functionality

The Lumin-based platform gives the Audiolab 9000N most of the functionality you would expect from a modern streamer. It can play music files from across your home network and stream songs from the likes of Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz and Tunein Radio. The platform is Roon Ready and Plex compatible. File compatibility is extensive, taking in 32-bit/768kHz PCM, DSD512 and MQA.

We think that should be enough to cope with most people's music collections. There are notable omissions though.

Those looking for Bluetooth connectivity are in for a disappointment, and Chromecast isn't on the menu either.