I wanted to buy a new "kitchen radio" for my kitchen. I thought about a network player with built-in amplifier and 2 small stereo speakers. First I wanted for a receiver not more than 350 to spend (is only for the kitchen :). So I bought the Denon DRA-N5 compact network receiver and 2 Nubert nuLine 24 - compact box. I was very disappointed by the rather tinny sound of the chain. The boxes were not, because this sounded to my highend stereo amplifier super. So the Denon returned, bought the Minx Xi and the network NAD amplifier D 7050. Both devices cost as the 800. So let's just 2.5 times as the Denon! But it was worth it. Both devices convince the sound. While the NAD supports AirPlay, but it is not good to use for various reasons and has little power reserves. But sonically it sparked a bit on fine. See also my review at NAD. Priced scores of Minx XI (699) compared with the NAD (860).
So I opted for the Minx Xi and am very happy today. At the end of my new "kitchen radio" incl. Loudspeakers has then cost about 1300. So rather an audiophile mini high-Netwerk-Stereoanalange, but oh well. We often sit a long time in the kitchen and enjoy the high quality musical entertainment every time when eating.
I mostly use the Internet Radio and accessing my DLNA server / library via LAN because the wireless receiver in the kitchen, unfortunately, is generally poor. However, I have tested the Wi-Fi access in the living room and argue that the Minx Xi basically moves nimbly on the network. Bluetooth reception I also be able to test successfully.
The Retro Design I really like. His appearance owes the valent heavy 6Kg Minx Xi his oversized toroidal transformer, which always guarantees a stable power supply.
= Positive
+ Easy to use
+ All functions directly usable on the device without App
+ Firmware update can be done directly over the network
+ Fantastic sound with audiophile aspirations
+ Remote controlled
+ DLNA / UPnP capable
+ Internet Radio
Controllable + per app. There are now two apps - "Stream Magic" and "Stream Magic Lite". The former only got bad reviews. I do not find particularly well. The Lite version seems more practical and to be more user friendly.
+ Many connections such as TOSLINK / Coax / Chinch IN, Bluetooth, LAN, WLAN, subwoofer OUT
+ Good workmanship
= Negative
- No AirPlay
Available no analog RCA and digital outputs and not as a pre -
- Can not be used as a USB DAC
- The Stream Magic app is not particularly comfortable and stable
My rating is 4.5 stars because of the negative points so I round up at 5 stars. The lack of support AirPlay is I think the reason for the rather large price difference for more expensive NAD.
