Streamers — Volumio Primo Plus

The Primo Plus is a network streamer with a built-in DAC from Volumio, built with an exceptionally wide DSD ceiling. Volumio is known primarily for its open-source streaming software platform, and the Primo Plus represents the brand's own dedicated hardware built specifically to run that software, rather than a third-party device simply licensing the Volumio interface.

Position in line

It sits above the Rivo Plus Special Edition in Volumio's streaming range. The relationship between the two suggests a fairly straightforward tiered structure, with the Rivo Plus Special Edition likely representing either a more compact or differently featured alternative within the same broader product family.

Key specs that matter

It handles PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and DSD1024, an exceptionally wide format range that covers essentially any file or stream a digital library might contain, including formats well beyond what most rival streamers support. Signal-to-noise exceeds 110 dB with distortion under 0.001%, both solid figures for a streaming DAC combination. At 270 x 50 x 150 mm and 1.5 kg it is a compact chassis, practical for a modest equipment shelf.

Sound and use context

Expect a clean, low-noise presentation typical of a modern streaming DAC, with the very wide format support covering essentially any digital library - the DSD1024 ceiling in particular is unusual and should future-proof this unit against all but the most exotic format developments for years to come.

Pairing

Standard analogue outputs work with any preamplifier or integrated amplifier accepting a conventional source connection, so integration should present no particular difficulty.

Alternatives

The Rivo Plus Special Edition sits alongside this model in Volumio's streaming range as a related design, worth comparing directly on chassis format and specific feature set before choosing between the two. Volumio open-source software platform means this hardware benefits from an active development community continually adding features and format support beyond what the original specification sheet describes, a genuine advantage over a more closed, proprietary streaming platform from a conventional hi-fi manufacturer. Buyers already familiar with Volumio software running on other hardware should find the transition to this dedicated unit particularly straightforward. Community-supported plugins and interface customisation are also worth exploring once the unit is set up, a genuine point of difference from a closed proprietary streaming platform.