Lumin U1 – The Perfect Digital Sound Source

Along with the rise of digital sound sources, there is also an increase in the number of specialized playback devices. The Lumin U1, seen below, is an excellent example of this: The issue of an all-encompassing device designation does arise as a result of it.

The first thing that springs to mind when working on a digital level and equipped with a luxury streaming compartment is the very broad term "digital bridge."

The Lumin U1, on the other hand, greatly enhances this function with new, digital connection choices and a highly developed volume control, which we dedicate a full chapter to due to its exceptional nature.

Overall, the term "digital streaming controller" is probably the best way to characterize the Lumin U1's functional region. Not to mention its integrated, technically sophisticated resampling device, which can be used to optimize the sonic cooperation of the Lumin U1 and the downstream digital-to-analog converter.

The Lumin U1 can take on central roles in a wide range of hi-fi systems due to its extensive feature set.

The two-part aluminum housing's upper "shell" is machined from a solid aluminum block. When it comes to the finish, you have the option of "natural" aluminum or black anodized aluminum, both with a brushed surface.

The decision is difficult because the Lumin U1 is already a true eye-catcher in terms of form: because of its simplicity, it manages the perfect balancing act between equally striking and unobtrusive.

The small hip flask's net weight of eight kilograms with its space-saving edge length of roughly 35 centimeters is no coincidence. The same is true for the lengthy power supply unit included in the delivery scope.

This operates in classic linear circuit technology, and it adds two kilograms to the Lumin team's overall weight thanks to two extravagant toroidal transformers from the Canadian expert Plitron.

Because the shell is only six centimeters flat, the Lumin U1's intriguingly curved front panel leaves little room for controls. As a result, your entire waiver is only logical.

Instead, it is totally controlled by the in-house Android or iOS app. The sole exception is the mechanical power on/off switch on the power supply unit's front panel.

A glance at the back connection panel reveals that the Lumin U1 is well-equipped for connectivity. In addition to the normal AES3 and S/PDIF fittings, it has a genuine highlight: thus equipped USB D/A converters can be connected directly to its two USB sockets, with the driver required for this being installed automatically.

This means that the digital working range of external USB converters can be completely utilized even in the absence of a laptop or computer as a player. AES3 or S/PDIF cabling, on the other hand, reaches the end of the road at the conventional 24bit/192kHz.

The two USB ports can also be used to connect external storage devices, such as FAT32-formatted USB sticks or exFAT or NTFS-formatted hard drives.

In this configuration, you don't even need a NAS disk to run the Lumin U1, albeit it does need to be connected to your home network through a LAN cable. This, however, just serves to receive control commands from the app.

When you make your initial attempts at using the Lumin app, another "secret feature" of the Lumin U1 with an incredibly high play value is uncovered.

This refers to the integrated resampler, which can convert digital one- or multi-bit signals in nearly any direction: upwards or downwards; DSD to PCM; PCM to DSD – both of which are, of course, completely compatible with Hi-Res at sampling speeds of up to 384 kHz PCM or DSD 256.

The noble - and incredibly robust - hip flask exhibits no wear or defects despite almost daily usage. Rather, it impresses even under harsh test conditions with its unwavering dependability, quick boot times, and quick reaction to driver inputs. We know that from gadgets of this type in a variety of ways…

The practical connection choices, which allow it to be employed in a variety of applications, are also noteworthy. The two USB ports, which may be utilized as both high-quality outputs and inputs for external storage media, are particularly remarkable.

The Lumin U1 also demonstrates, through smartly integrated technology, that a beneficial range of functions does not have to go hand in hand with confusing operations.

Of course, nearly 7,000 dollars for a streaming bridge is already a hefty price tag. However, when you purchase the Lumin U1, you are not simply purchasing a global, dependable streamer.

Rather, it is the assurance that the greatest possible structure has been constructed for the later D/A converter, regardless of whether it works "stand-alone" or is integrated into the preamp, integrated amplifier, or active loudspeakers.

For those of us who have to analyze a wide range of components on a daily basis, an incorruptible, neutral signal preparer is unquestionably worth its weight in gold. The same is true for individuals who wish to get the most out of their digital chain…