NuPrime Evolution Stream Server Music Server, Black

The NuPrime Evolution Stream Server is a music server hub that bundles Roon Core, local libraries and hi-res streaming in a single device.

It is the solution for everyone who wants to manage their entire music world centrally – in the hi-fi rack instead of on the work PC.

Why the Evolution Stream Server?

Digital data is like a river – normally with eddies and impurities, which in technology are called jitter (timing errors in the clock) and EMI noise. With the Stream Server, NuPrime counters this with one TCXO clock per Ethernet port, EMI filters on the power supply and a dedicated ground connection. An Intel quad-core CPU (J6413) with 32 gigabytes of RAM provides computing reserves.

NuPrime describes the Evolution series as reference class: detailed, wide, relaxed – and for the Stream Server the motto is «Your library. A world of listening.» Roon Core and Roon Bridge, DLNA as well as Spotify, Tidal and Qobuz Connect run on the same platform.

What you get

Particularly practical is the dedicated player port: a separate gigabit connection for the direct connection of an audio player, separate from the home network port. The internal 250-gigabyte SSD serves the VitOS operating system and the apps. The second-generation USB audio output brings, according to NuPrime, improved noise suppression with high-frequency filters and clean 5-volt supply. The server serves up to ten players simultaneously – a hub for multiroom setups. Local music is added via USB storage, and if you own an external master clock, you feed it in at the 10 MHz input (25 MHz is optional according to the manufacturer).

Who is the Stream Server suited for – and who not?

Ideal for anyone who runs Roon Core seriously and wants to manage their music centrally and cleanly. Plainly put: if you only occasionally listen to Spotify through a wireless speaker, you do not need this hub – that would be a concert grand for Happy Birthday. Tip from the workshop: expand local data via external USB drives; we leave the system SSD alone.

Our verdict

A specialised tool for anyone who wants to run Roon not on a work PC but as the centrepiece in the hi-fi rack: plenty of processing power, separate network and player ports and a clock input for external clocks. If you own an external master clock, you can feed it in via the 10-megahertz input; whether and how much of it you hear depends on your chain.

Technical specifications

• Type: Music server / Roon Core (VitOS platform)
• Processor: Intel quad-core CPU J6413
• Memory: 32 gigabytes DDR4 RAM
• Internal storage: 250 gigabyte SATA SSD (for VitOS and apps)
• Software and services: Roon Core and Roon Bridge, DLNA, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, VitOS Manager
• USB audio output: PCM up to 768 kilohertz (32 bit), DSD up to DSD512
• Roon DSP transcoding: up to DSD256, up to 10 players simultaneously
• Network: 2 x Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45), network and player separated, with one TCXO per port and EMI filter
• Clock input: 10-megahertz clock input (gold-plated), internal/external switch, 25 megahertz optional
• Other connections: 2 x USB 3.1, 1 x USB 2.0 (storage), 1 x USB Type-C (reserved)
• Dimensions (W x H x D): 430 × 61.5 × 369 mm
• Weight: 5.2 kg
• Colour: Black
• What's in the box: Stream Server; further accessories on request

FAQ

Can the Evolution Stream Server be used as a Roon Core?
Yes, it is Roon Core capable. With an Intel quad-core CPU and 32 gigabytes of RAM it is designed for this; NuPrime specifies Roon DSP transcoding up to DSD256. And it sits in the rack instead of standing in the room as a work PC.

Why does the server have two Ethernet ports?
One port connects it to your home network. The second, the player port, is intended for the direct connection of an audio player, for example the Stream 9X. Network and player are thus separated.

Do I need a paid subscription for the Stream Server?
No. You can manage and play local music libraries via USB storage, entirely without a subscription. Streaming services are an option: NuPrime mentions Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Qobuz Connect, managed via VitOS Manager or VitOS Orbiter – not a must. As a Qobuz hi-fi partner, we are happy to set this up for you on request.

How is the Stream Server controlled?
Management runs via the VitOS Manager app for iOS and Android. For actual listening you use Roon or the Connect functions of the streaming apps. We are happy to help with the initial setup.

Why buy the NuPrime Evolution Stream Server at HD Zürisee?
Because a server is only as good as its integration. We know Roon, networking and the interplay with DAC and streamer from practice and set up the chain cleanly for you. Our own technician, honest advice on multiroom and cabling. Call or write to us – also via WhatsApp.

Goes well with

A server is the start of the chain – this is how to continue sensibly:

• Converter: A good DAC on the USB output, for example the Evolution DAC-2 from the same series – it comes with a preamplifier.
• Player: For further rooms or the separate player port: streamers and network players – multiroom without the server having to leave the rack.
• Network: Clean network cables and network components such as the SW-9X switch from the Networking series. Honestly: a switch does not improve correctly transmitted data, and the audible effect depends on player, DAC and the overall system – we will tell you openly whether it is worthwhile for you.
• Expansion: With power amplifiers such as the Evolution STA-SE, the server becomes a complete reference chain.
• More from the series: NuPrime