Innuos Stream1 vs Stream3: Finding Your Perfect Digital Music Source

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 Stream1 and Stream3 models 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.

The Innuos Advantage

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.

Stream1 from £2,100

The Stream1 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.

Key Benefits of the Stream1:

• 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 Stream1 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.

Stream3 from £5,400

For those seeking the ultimate digital source, the Stream3 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.

What Makes the Stream3 Special:

• 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 aluminum chassis provides superior vibration control and shielding
• Exclusive Options: The PhoenixDAC module, developed with renowned designer Dr. Sean Jacobs, transforms the Stream3 into a complete digital source of the highest caliber
• Enhanced Detail Retrieval: The dedicated grounding port allows for further noise reduction, revealing subtle nuances in your favorite recordings
• Future-Proof Design: The modular architecture ensures compatibility with evolving digital formats and connection standards

The Stream3 pairs exceptionally well with high-end DACs and amplifiers—creating a digital front end of remarkable capability.

Sound Quality: What You Can Expect

While specifications tell part of the story, what matters most is how these units sound in a real system. Here's what you can expect from each model:

Stream1 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

Stream3 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

Making Your Choice

Finding the perfect match for your system, listening preferences, and budget is important. Here are some considerations to help you decide between these two excellent options:

Consider Your Current System

The Stream1 pairs beautifully with a wide range of equipment and represents an excellent upgrade for most systems. The Stream3's capabilities are best realized when matched with equally capable components throughout your audio chain.

Future Upgrade Plans

If you're building your system gradually, the Stream1 with a planned LPS1 upgrade offers a sensible path. If you're completing a reference-level system, the Stream3 provides performance that will satisfy for years to come.

Value Perspective

Both models deliver exceptional value in their respective categories. The Stream1 offers performance that challenges streamers at significantly higher price points, while the Stream3 competes favorably with digital sources costing much more.

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 (Stream3 only - direct DAC chip connection)
• PhoenixDAC Board (Stream3 only - premium dual mono AKM implementation)

Storage Options:

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

Available at Martins Hi-Fi

Both the Stream1 and Stream3 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 about these exceptional digital sources 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