14-Aug-2025, 08:31
The primary objective should be to minimize the number of cables connected to the Devialet units. The Mac Mini should operate with only the essential connections: a power cable, Ethernet, and a single USB output — nothing more.
The next step is to optimize the streaming source. There is inherent translation latency when using ports routed through the CI board, so these should be avoided. The most direct and effective strategy is to feed the Devialet via a single coaxial or XLR connection. In this configuration, the Devialet would require only a power cable, one coax/XLR input, and speaker outputs. If possible, disable both Wi-Fi and Ethernet to reduce potential noise ingress.
To achieve this, the missing element in your system is a high-quality streamer. While the Holo Red Streamer is a strong option, IanCanada offers streamer/DDC solutions that are both more cost-effective and, in some cases, superior in performance. I am currently evaluating these options myself, and you may wish to conduct a similar assessment before making a purchase.
Regarding loudspeaker changes, your current system already delivers full-range coverage. Moving to a B&W setup at this stage would be largely an aesthetic choice, as your existing combination of high/midrange speakers and subwoofers provides excellent performance.
For a truly substantial improvement in sound quality, the next priority should be room acoustics and/or digital room correction, as these will have a more profound and measurable impact than changing speakers in your current configuration.
The next step is to optimize the streaming source. There is inherent translation latency when using ports routed through the CI board, so these should be avoided. The most direct and effective strategy is to feed the Devialet via a single coaxial or XLR connection. In this configuration, the Devialet would require only a power cable, one coax/XLR input, and speaker outputs. If possible, disable both Wi-Fi and Ethernet to reduce potential noise ingress.
To achieve this, the missing element in your system is a high-quality streamer. While the Holo Red Streamer is a strong option, IanCanada offers streamer/DDC solutions that are both more cost-effective and, in some cases, superior in performance. I am currently evaluating these options myself, and you may wish to conduct a similar assessment before making a purchase.
Regarding loudspeaker changes, your current system already delivers full-range coverage. Moving to a B&W setup at this stage would be largely an aesthetic choice, as your existing combination of high/midrange speakers and subwoofers provides excellent performance.
For a truly substantial improvement in sound quality, the next priority should be room acoustics and/or digital room correction, as these will have a more profound and measurable impact than changing speakers in your current configuration.
Audioquest Thunder | High (Variable) Current Power Cable - Audioquest Niagara 3000 - Apple MacMini (2018) - Cardas Clear USB/ Blue Jeans Ethernet Cable - Devialet Expert 440 Pro on IsoAcoustics Orea Bronze - Van Den Hul The Breeze Hybrid Speaker Cables - Focal Scala Utopia Evo on IsoAcoustics Gaia-TITAN Theis
