Argon Audio Stream 2 MK3 Network Streamer

The Argon Audio Stream 2 MK3 is a paperback-sized network streamer that delivers Spotify Connect and internet radio via WLAN to an existing amplifier. It's the smallest sensible answer to the question of how a good-sounding system without a network connection can still stream: connect it, get it onto your WLAN, play.

Why the Stream 2 MK3?

Because a source component is the more honest solution than swapping a working chain for an all-in-one system. The Stream 2 MK3 joins your home network via WLAN, shows the station, title and cover art on its own colour display, and passes the signal on either as analogue over RCA or digitally via the optical output. If you take the optical route, your amplifier's DAC does the conversion; if you take RCA, the streamer handles it itself.

What you get

Surprisingly much device in 12.9 centimetres of width. You control Spotify directly from the Spotify app; for internet radio, podcasts and station search there's the UNDOK app and an infrared remote in the box. It pulls music stored on a NAS or a server on your home network via UPnP. A subscription isn't a requirement: over 20,000 internet radio stations and your own files run without one.

Who is the Stream 2 MK3 right for — and who isn't it for?

Plain talk: if you expect Hi-Res at 24 bit, this isn't for you — the limit is 16 bit and 44.1 kHz, i.e. CD quality. A network cable can't be connected, it's WLAN only, and Bluetooth is missing too. But if you want to bring Spotify, internet radio and network files cleanly into an existing system, that's exactly what you get — without a single change to the rest of the chain.

Our verdict

A tool, not a status symbol: small, quiet, unobtrusive, and after ten minutes of setup you forget it's even there. For a source component, that's exactly a compliment. Whether your amplifier has a free high-level input and whether the WLAN reaches your living room is something we quickly clarify with you beforehand — HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, 044 680 22 00 or WhatsApp 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls).

Technical specifications

• Device type: network streamer (source component, no built-in power amp)
• Network: WLAN 802.11 b/g – no LAN connection
• Bluetooth: not available
• Services & protocols: Spotify Connect, internet radio (over 20,000 stations), podcasts, network playback via UPnP
• Tuner: no DAB+ or FM
• Converter / maximum resolution: integrated DAC, up to 16 bit / 44.1 kHz (CD quality)
• Formats: incl. MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, AIFF, FLAC, OGG Vorbis
• Display: colour display on the front, 2.7 inches
• Outputs: 1× RCA analogue (line), 1× optical digital (Toslink)
• Output level: line level at RCA, playback volume adjustable via the remote control
• Headphone output: not available
• Control: included infrared remote control, UNDOK app (iOS/Android), Spotify app
• Power supply: external plug-in power adapter, DC 5 V / 1 A
• Dimensions (W × H × D): 12.9 × 5.5 × 8.0 cm
• Weight: 0.33 kg
• What's included: Stream 2 MK3, power adapter DC 5 V / 1 A, RCA cable, remote control, quick start guide

Frequently asked questions

Which services does the Argon Audio Stream 2 MK3 support?

Spotify Connect and internet radio with over 20,000 stations come built in from the factory, along with podcasts and playback of music files from the home network via UPnP. Tidal, Qobuz or Apple Music are not built in. Radio and network files, by the way, run entirely without a paid subscription.

Does the Stream 2 MK3 have a network connection or Bluetooth?

No, neither. The Stream 2 MK3 connects to your home network exclusively via 802.11 b/g WLAN; there's no LAN socket, and no Bluetooth either. If you need a network cable, Bluetooth or a DAB+ tuner, the larger Stream 3 MK2 is the right device.

What resolution does the Stream 2 MK3 achieve?

Up to 16 bit and 44.1 kHz, i.e. CD quality. It doesn't play back 24-bit Hi-Res files at full resolution. For Spotify, internet radio and most music collections, that's entirely sufficient — anyone wanting to go higher should plan straight away for a streamer in the next class up.

How do I connect the Stream 2 MK3 to my amplifier?

Via the RCA output into a free high-level input on your amplifier — a cable is included. Alternatively, you go digital via the optical output into an amplifier or DAC with a Toslink input. The device has no headphone output; power comes from the included 5-volt power adapter.

Why buy the Stream 2 MK3 from HD Zürisee?

Because we check beforehand whether your amplifier has the right input and whether your WLAN reaches the system — two questions that nobody answers online. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil, our own technician helps you with setup and afterwards too.

Goes well with

A source component needs a connection: more streamers & network players to compare, a matching partner from all amplifiers, or the necessary cables & connectors range.