Стримеры — SMSL N100

The N100 is a network streamer and digital transport from SMSL, the Chinese maker of compact DACs and amplifiers, developed together with Volumio and controlled through the Volumio app. It was launched on 19 February 2025 at USD 419, and European retailers list it at EUR 469. It contains no DAC, so it always works with an external converter through one of its four digital outputs.

Key specs that matter

Outputs are optical, coaxial and AES/EBU, each carrying PCM from 44.1 kHz to 192 kHz, and USB, which carries PCM from 44.1 kHz to 768 kHz at 32 bit and DSD from 2.8 MHz to 11.2 MHz, equivalent to DSD64 to DSD256. Inputs are two USB 2.0 ports, one USB 3.0 port, Ethernet and dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi at 2.4 and 5 GHz. A CD drive connected over USB lets the N100 play discs. Supported services are Tidal, Qobuz, Roon, TuneIn, SHOUTcast and Pandora, with AirPlay, DLNA and MQA. The internal supply is a low-noise audio-grade design that accepts 100 to 240 V mains, and consumption is 20 W at most and below 0.1 W in standby. The N100 is 200 mm wide and 175 mm deep and weighs 880 g.

Engineering and use context

Leaving out the DAC keeps the N100 focused on collecting and delivering digital data, and lets the owner choose the converter separately or keep an existing one. The USB output supports the highest rates, so a USB DAC receives high-rate PCM and DSD without conversion, while the S/PDIF and AES/EBU outputs cover converters and receivers limited to 192 kHz. Volumio is a music player platform that handles local files, streaming services and internet radio in one interface, and its app controls playback from a phone or tablet. For Roon users the N100 acts as a Roon Ready network endpoint, and the box holds only the unit and a power cable, since there is no remote control. The USB 3.0 port suits fast external drives holding a large library, and an external USB optical drive brings compact discs into the same playback chain. The front panel is CNC-machined aluminium in a silver finish. A switching power supply built into the case removes the need for an external adapter, and the slim 34 mm case fits on a desk or shelf next to a compact DAC. Audiophonics lists a two-year warranty.

Pairing

SMSL's own DACs with USB inputs are the natural partners, receiving the full 768 kHz and DSD256 range. Any DAC or AV receiver with coaxial, optical or AES/EBU inputs also works at up to 192 kHz.

Alternatives

The SMSL DP5SE is a network player with a built-in ES9039Q2M DAC and headphone amplifier.