High-End Streaming Without the High-End Price: 5 Killer Options Under $2K

Your Streaming Experience Needs To Be Jaw-Dropping, Not The Price 

A streamer has a job to do; it's got to deliver the goods. You want musicality (the quality of music that is pleasing to listen to), detail (the ability to hear all the nuances in the music), and nuance (subtle variations in the music). It has to be right, but it does not have to cost your whole budget. With the leaps in DAC and streaming technology over the last twenty years, you can have every album at your fingertips, audiophile-level results, and a budget that makes sense. Yes, that is now possible.

Whether you're building your first high-end system or looking to give your digital components a much-needed facelift, these picks offer uncompromising performance under $2,000, ensuring you get the best value for your money.

Bonus: We’ve included gear that we think fits the bill, either new or used, to stretch your budget further. Our 'Fresh Arrivals' section features recently added products that are in excellent condition and offer great value for money.

1. Bluesound ICON — The Benchmark Just Got Better

Why it’s on the list: Bluesound has consistently delivered over the years and set the standard for what a streamer/DAC can sound like on a budget with the famous Node. The Node Icon delivers with added features, a larger touchscreen front panel, and, of course, the fan-favorite Blue OS app to control if you want to be hands-off. 

• Currently selling for $1119, New and appears on our fresh arrivals used 
• Easy to use, great app, and impressive sound for the price
• Built-in DAC and headphone amp make it a flexible all-in-one

Pro tip: The Bluesound has a great DAC on board. However, pairing it with an external DAC when the budget allows unlocks even more performance. You can even experiment with streaming from the Bluesound to a DAC on your preamp or integrated amplifier.

2. Cambridge EXN100 / CXN100 — Streaming That Redefines  Hi-Fi 

Why it’s on the list: Cambridge is making some of the best-sounding streamer DACs on the market, regardless of price point. From the famous CXNv2 to the current EX100 and EVO150, they have unlocked some kind of magic at Cambridge. These DACs sound right at home in a $50k system just as they do in a $2k system. Not to forget that the StreamMagic app is one of the most stable and intuitive platforms on the market. Don't believe me? Grab one for yourself. I'm listening through my older CXN v2 while I'm writing this, and it is still blowing me away after years of action.

• The EXN100 and CXN100 both come in well under $2k, and often appear in our Fresh Arrivals section 
• Natural, open sound with a smooth interface
• The EXN100 adds a few extras, specifically a larger screen, and HDMI ARC

Pro tip: The EXN100 and CXN100 can also be used as preamps. If you are building a system, you could use the streamer as a preamp and focus your budget on speakers and amplification. Then, revisit the preamp down the road.

3. Innuos Pulse Mini — Digital Purist, Budget Realist

Why it’s on the list: The Pulse Mini is versatile, loaded with features, and uses a great app—what's not to love? This is a stellar-sounding piece of kit, especially when you realize it won't cost you your whole budget.

• Whether buying new or shopping Fresh Arrivals, the Mini comes in under budget
• Audiophile-grade streaming with the Innuos Sense app and an internal SSD buffer.
  Great timing, low noise floor—designed by digital purists

Pro tip: This does benefit from having a good set of interconnects. It's a very neutral and natural-sounding streamer, and it gives you a lot of detail. Don't hide that away behind bad cables. Check out these great options that will complement your Pulse and still keep you under 2k. 

4. Eversolo DMP-A6/A8 — The Giant Slayer

Why it’s on the list: The Eversolo entered the audio world like a comet, and it seems here to stay. The DMP-A6 and DMP-A8 have already made their mark by being absolute giant killers in performance and cost.

• These appear in Fresh Arrivals fairly often 
• Well-designed screen, dual ESS DACs, fully balanced outputs, and Roon Ready
• Shockingly good build and sound for the money

Pro tip: A true “giant killer”—ideal as a primary streamer in any rig. When and where possible, use the DAC in your preamp, or add a separate DAC to your system, and use the Eversolo as a streaming source.

5. Lumin U2 Mini — Streamer for the Serious Listener

Why it’s on the list: Sleek in design and packed with sound, the Lumin U2 Mini is an incredible option if you want detailed, neutral sound. The U2 has become so popular that we snuck it on the list, even though you must have an outboard DAC. This can go straight to an outboard DAC or into the DAC of a preamp or integrated amp with one on board.

• These appear in Fresh Arrivals somewhat often for ~$1,500
• High-end streaming transport with stunning transparency and speed
• Ideal for pairing with a reference DAC

Pro tip: Even the older U1 Mini is worth a look if you’re DAC-focused.

Conclusion:Streaming has advanced to a level we could hardly imagine just ten years ago. With brands like Cambridge, Innuos, Eversolo, and many others, achieving exceptional musicality and detail is now within reach without breaking the bank. Whether you prefer the simplicity of plug-and-play devices or the refined experience of audiophile-grade options, these streamers demonstrate that great sound doesn’t have to come at a steep price. Remember, these are just a few highlights among many choices. Be on the lookout for exciting new arrivals, along with impressive used and new streamers!