FURTHER UPSTREAM

Ready to take the next step on your music-streaming journey? These premium streamers will do nicely

Despite our ongoing love of physical formats, streaming music wirelessly is convenient, versatile and space-saving. Whether you have meticulously curated hard drives full of hi-res digital downloads and CD rips, or enjoy streaming in high quality from Tidal or Qobuz, playing music from one box using a wi-fi or wired connection is a versatile and highperformance experience. As a result, dedicated music streamers are increasingly a part of any audiophile's set-up.

While there are now many fantastic budget models on the market, there are also options higher up the price ladder for those who want to wring out every drop of authenticity and insight they can from their digital music.

The streamers we recommend over the following pages are not the most premium options out there, but they do represent a good step-up from entry level. Sitting above £1500 but under £3000, these are fantastic options from some of the biggest names in hi-fi Cambridge Audio, Naim, Audiolab and Technics.

At this level, fine build, a wealth of features, broad connectivity and reliable digital platforms are to be expected, as well as, of course, extensive file compatibility. Basically, if you play music digitally and the quality of that music is of paramount importance, it's well worth taking the plunge and investing in a step-up streamer such as those we have here.

Cambridge Audio EXN100

£1599

Cambridge Audio's music C streamers have had a terrific run recently. From the budget MXN10 to the mid-priced CXN100, the brand's network audio players have achieved five-star success thanks to strong features, ease of use and great performance for the price.

And now the company can add another string to its bow. The new Cambridge Audio EXN100 aims to bridge the gap between the mid-range CXN100 and the flagship Edge NQ streamers; it is priced competitively at £1599.