I own the $5,000 SRP Infigo Audio IS-1 Signature streamer and have Audirvana Studio music player installed. Audirvana Remote is installed on my iPad.  

Audirvana Studio enhances audio quality on computers by optimizing the operating system for audio playback and disabling non-essential services. It functions as a third-party player, scanning local music libraries and integrating streaming services like Tidal and Qobuz, but not Spotify or Apple Music.  Audirvana offers both subscription and lifetime license models. 

My Ethernet source drives a netLINK Ethernet Media Converter model HTB-GS-03 with a fiber optic output driving a fiber optic cable to the streamer.  A 5V wall adapter powers the netLINK.  The streamer’s only digital output is USB to the DAC.  Infigo chose USB as the sole output format because done right it provides ultimate performance.  Any other format would increase cost while limiting bit rate, sample rate and ultimate performance.    

Fiber optic isolation in this case improves audio quality by eliminating network noise and jitter. This separation between the ‘dirty’ network and the clean audio chain ensures that RF and EMI interference, as well as high-impedance leakage currents from network devices, do not degrade the audio signal. As a result, digital music reproduction is cleaner, quieter, and more transparent, providing a more natural and lifelike sound experience. 

It also incorporates ultra-low jitter re-clocking of network audio packets, reducing the need for specialized network equipment. The device supports multiple modes of operation, including Audirvana, uPnP, Roon, and HQPlayer, making it compatible with most music players.  

IS-1 employs Intel’s best Quad Core CPU with one core fully dedicated to music processing. This music core runs at a moderately high fixed rate while the other 3 cores vary in speed depending on needs.  Intel primarily designed this as a state-of-the-art CPU with maximum speed and power for mobile devices. Infigo chose this CPU for its speed, power and low-current draw, allowing the use of a mandatory linear power supply to meet performance goals.

Onboard IS-1 is a toroidal transformer and 100W linear power supply, about 5x the maximum required for immense power supply headroom.  Infigo includes a built-in local webpage (http://infigostreamer.local) for easy control and customization, with dimmable front-panel LED with full-off option. 

The Infigo Audio IS-1 streamer has substantially improved my sound quality.   I immediately noticed my system sounds much better.   The music is clearer, bass is more powerful, and imaging has improved.  

The Ayre Acoustics EX-8 2.0 is a high-end, modular integrated amplifier offering versatile connectivity and powerful audio performance for serious music listeners. It combines Ayre’s advanced proprietary technologies with practical input/output options and premium build quality.

Key Specifications:

•           Power output: 100 watts per channel into 8 ohms, 170 watts per channel into 4 ohms.

•           Amplification: Class A/B, zero-feedback, fully balanced circuit with Ayre’s ‘Double Diamond’ output stage and ‘Equilock’ gain stage.

•           Inputs: Three analog (two RCA, one XLR).  THIS AMP IS NOT THE digital hub version.