Stream Box DS net is Pro-Ject Audio?s fully equipped audio streaming client & internet radio, that is able to play music stored in network servers (computers, NAS drives, etc) connected to your home network. Stream Box DS net includes powerful audiophilefeatures. Ready for use with streaming service Spotify and LOSSLESS audio music platform TIDAL. Other streaming services like Deezer, Grooveshark etc, can be implemented using 3rd party applications.
Superb audio playback including 24bit HD music is self-evident, like outstanding technical data for distortion and noi-se levels. Navigation can be done via IR remote (which is included) and/or free Android / iOS App.
Pro-ject Streambox DS: No bespoke app control
The various menus and settings are controlled by a relatively ordinary-looking remote control, but those bland looks are deceptive: the credit-card-sized sliver of plastic works very well.
The buttons are a decent size, but it?s the speed and fluidity with which the DS reacts to your prods and pokes that puts some of the other machines and their fancy apps to shame.
Pro-ject Streambox DS: Functionality
Functionality is so-so for a product of this type. The UPnP support is par for the course, and there’s a screw-in aerial to fit on the back of the unit for wireless connectivity, which is a welcome addition to the wired ethernet option.
USB inputs front and back allow you to connect external sources such as an iPhone or USB hard drive and stream directly.
Pro-ject Streambox DS: Sound quality
Stream some music and there?s a decent level of detail to be had in a soundstage which displays good depth and positions the various elements reasonably well.
Verdict
The DS finds itself in a precarious position: the sound quality is lacking, while features and functionality are a mixed bag.