The South Korean company Hifi Rose has updated the RS150 network audio streamer, which was presented more than four years ago. The new version is called HiFi Rose RS151 – the streamer has several significant improvements compared to the previous one.
The Sabre ES9039PRO DAC chip from ESS Technology provides high-quality digital-to-analog conversion. In addition, the new product uses fourth-generation Hyperstream technology and an improved Femto clock generator for maximum synchronization accuracy and minimal jitter. The HiFi Rose RS151 network streamer is equipped with a new eight-core CPU and a new GPU, which provides four times more computing power and eight times more graphics performance compared to the processor installed in its predecessor (which is logical, because the touch screen of the new product now has an even higher resolution, and its diagonal has increased to 15.4”).
Another important difference of the HiFi Rose RS151 is the complete physical separation of digital and analog signal paths. This solution eliminates interference and interference between the circuits. Both wireless modules (Wi-Fi and Bluetooth) have been integrated "on board" the device. The HiFi Rose RS151 network streamer runs on a customized ROSE operating system based on Android 12. The new streamer supports music playback from local storage, streaming services and CD ripping via an external optical drive. The device also supports Roon Ready and is compatible with Spotify Connect, Tidal, Qobuz, Apple Music and Internet radio. Among other things, the HiFi Rose RS151 network streamer's commutation includes an HDMI eARC port, which simplifies connection to a TV.
The analogue stage of the HiFi Rose RS151 network streamer includes a Rose Noise Reduction Analog (NRA) filter, which minimizes interference and ensures a flat frequency response. An improved power supply design improves stability and suppresses unwanted noise. The HiFi Rose RS151 network streamer is available now for £4,299.
This product is in the Hi-Fi and High End Electronics and Acoustics database
Model name
RS151
Has internal DAC
Yes
DSD compatability
Yes
Parameters
up yo PCM 32/768 and DSD512
DSP processing
Octa core RK3588
Frequency response low +/- 3dB (Hz)
20
Frequency response high +/- 3dB (Hz)
75000
Gain (dBu)
N/A
Input Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
N/A
Input Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
N/A
Output Impedance (balanced) (Ω)
2.84
Output Impedance (single-ended) (Ω)
2.84
Analog outputs level (balanced) (V)
9
Analog outputs level (single-ended) (V)
4.5
Signal to Noise Ratio (dB)
131
Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise (% at 22 kHz)
0.0002
Dimensions (mm)
430 x 319 x 125
Weight (kg)
11
Official link
For the first time in its 60-year history, Rotel has released a headphone amplifier – the model is called Rotel DX-3 and will be available at the end of March 2025 for $1,499 / €1,499. The amplifier can operate with a wired connection of headphones, both in analog and digital versions (there is an unbalanced 6.35 mm jack on board, as well as a Pentaconn 4.4 mm for a balanced connection).
The Atoll Electronique ST300 Signature is presented – a network streamer supporting signals up to PCM up to 24 bit / 192 kHz and DSD up to DSD128. Of course, the device is Roon certified and has built-in Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify and Deezer clients.
Bang & Olufsen and Saint Laurent have unveiled a super-exclusive version of the Beogram 4000c turntable – a Bang & Olufsen factory-restored iconic turntable reimagined by the fashion house. Each Beogram 4000c Series Saint Laurent Rive Droit Edition will be sold exclusively at Saint Laurent Rive Droite stores in Paris and Los Angeles, as well as on the YSL and Bang & Olufsen websites, and only 10 units will be produced (the device will likely soon become a museum artifact).
Matrix Audio has introduced two new network streamers with transport functionality – devoid of a digital-to-analog converter and designed for use with external DACs. Both models are designed in a recognizable futuristic aesthetic and are equipped with large touch screens on the front panel. The streamers are also Roon certified.
SMSL presented the SMSL PL200T CD transport – the highlight of the model was the proprietary SMSL PASS Servo system, which ensures very accurate reading of information from optical media. The SMSL PL200T also has the ability to play MQA-CDs and a very interesting function of working as a digital transport - the device can be used as a digital interface with a USB-C input, supporting digital streams in PCM format with a resolution of up to 32 bit/768 kHz and in DSD format up to DSD512.