Innuos Stream 1 vs Stream 3 Review: A Dealer's Hands-On Comparison

The new Innuos Stream series has quickly become one of the most impressive digital source options in today's high-fidelity audio market. With the Stream 1 and Stream 3 offering exceptional performance at different price points, these versatile music streamers provide compelling options for audiophiles at any level. Here at Martins Hi-Fi, we're pleased to offer both models and want to help you understand the key differences to make an informed decision.

Why Innuos? The case for the platform

What sets Innuos apart is their holistic approach to digital audio — developing both hardware and software in-house ensures seamless integration and optimal performance. Their proprietary Sense app provides an intuitive user experience with comprehensive features for managing and enjoying your music collection.

Innuos Stream 1 review: performance at the entry point

From £2,230 — view product

The Stream 1 represents Innuos' entry point into high-quality digital streaming, but don't be fooled by its "entry-level" designation. This compact powerhouse delivers performance that would have cost significantly more just a few years ago.

• Compact versatility: The half-width design fits easily into any setup while offering full-size functionality.
• Remarkable clarity: The CX Power Regulation technology provides clean, detailed sound that belies its price point.
• Upgrade potential: The optional LPS1 linear power supply offers a significant performance boost when you're ready.
• Flexible configuration: Functions beautifully as a streamer, server, or both depending on your needs.
• Value proposition: Delivers much of what makes Innuos special at a more accessible price.

The Stream 1 brings newfound clarity and dimension to familiar recordings. Paired with quality DACs, it forms the foundation of a system that will provide musical enjoyment for years to come.

Innuos Stream 3 review: the reference-level streamer

From £5,400 — view product

For those seeking the ultimate digital source, the Stream 3 represents Innuos' uncompromising vision of what's possible in digital audio reproduction. It's designed for audiophiles who demand the very best from their digital front end.

• State-of-the-art power design: The ARC6-CX architecture with 132,000μf Mundorf capacitance and 300VA toroidal transformer creates an incredibly stable foundation for digital playback.
• Premium construction: The 10mm thick CNC-machined aluminium chassis provides superior vibration control and shielding.
• Exclusive options: The PhoenixDAC module, developed with renowned designer Dr. Sean Jacobs, transforms the Stream 3 into a complete digital source of the highest calibre.
• Enhanced detail retrieval: The dedicated grounding port allows for further noise reduction, revealing subtle nuances in your favourite recordings.
• Future-proof design: The modular architecture ensures compatibility with evolving digital formats and connection standards.

The Stream 3 pairs exceptionally well with high-end DACs and amplifiers, creating a digital front end of remarkable capability.

Sound quality verdict: Stream 1 vs Stream 3 compared

While specifications tell part of the story, what matters most is how these units sound in a real system.

Stream 1 sonic character

• Clean, articulate presentation with excellent clarity
• Well-defined soundstage that extends beyond speaker boundaries
• Engaging rhythmic drive that keeps you connected to the music
• Natural tonal balance that avoids digital harshness

Stream 3 sonic character

• Exceptional micro-detail that reveals the full texture of instruments and voices
• Expansive, three-dimensional soundstage with precise placement of performers
• Effortless reproduction of dynamic contrasts from the subtlest to the most dramatic
• Utterly silent backgrounds that allow music to emerge from a truly black canvas
• Complete harmonic structure that brings authentic timbral character to instruments

Modular options for both models

One of the most compelling aspects of the Innuos Stream series is the modular approach that allows you to tailor the unit to your specific needs.

Output module options

• Standard DAC Board (PCM up to 24bit/192kHz)
• Performance DAC Board (PCM up to 32bit/768kHz, Native DSD)
• PhoenixUSB Board (regenerated USB with OCXO clock)
• SPDIF Board (superior coaxial, optical and AES outputs)
• PhoenixI2S Board (Stream 3 only — direct DAC chip connection)
• PhoenixDAC Board (Stream 3 only — premium dual mono AKM implementation)

Storage options

• 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB pre-installed storage
• Install your own M.2 NVMe SSD

Who should buy the Stream 1?

The Stream 1 pairs beautifully with a wide range of equipment and represents an excellent upgrade for most systems. If you're building your system gradually, the Stream 1 with a planned LPS1 upgrade offers a sensible path. It offers performance that challenges streamers at significantly higher price points.

Who should buy the Stream 3?

The Stream 3's capabilities are best realised when matched with equally capable components throughout your audio chain. If you're completing a reference-level system, the Stream 3 provides performance that will satisfy for years to come — competing favourably with digital sources costing considerably more.

Available at Martins Hi-Fi

Both the Stream 1 and Stream 3 are currently available at Martins Hi-Fi. We can help you configure the perfect setup with the appropriate output modules and storage options to match your system and listening preferences.

To learn more or to place an order, please contact us via the chat button, call 01603 627010, or email info@martinshifi.co.uk.

Martins Hi-Fi — Bringing Music to Life Since 1968