{"id":38714,"date":"2024-08-17T16:26:48","date_gmt":"2024-08-17T14:26:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hifi-advice.com\/blog\/?p=38714"},"modified":"2024-08-20T11:57:25","modified_gmt":"2024-08-20T09:57:25","slug":"aqua-linq-network-interface-part-4-squeezelite","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hifi-advice.com\/blog\/review\/digital-reviews\/network-player-reviews\/aqua-linq-network-interface-part-4-squeezelite\/","title":{"rendered":"Aqua LinQ Network Interface – Part 4 – Squeezelite"},"content":{"rendered":"

Review sample supplied by Aqua<\/a>
\nRetail prices in the NL, including 21% VAT:
\nLinQ 1 (with one Renderer module, UPnP, HQP, or Squeeze): 6.350 euro
\nLinQ 2 (with two Renderer modules): 7.590 euro
\nLinQ Core (with HQP Core + NAA Renderer module): 7.750 euro
\nOther combinations available
\nSqueezelite, UPnP, or HQP module: 1.350 euro<\/h4>\n

In addition to the existing UPnP, HQ Player, and HQ Player Core + NAA modules, Aqua has introduced a Squeezelite renderer module for the LinQ Network Interface, adding ongoing significance to this streamer’s future-proof nature.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Usually, I make a single review per component, but due to the Aqua LinQ Network Interface’s Modular Nature, this review already marks the fourth installment! If there’s anything this series illustrates just perfectly, it is the benefit of the Aqua components’ modular structure in general and the versatility of the LinQ in particular.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Introduced in June 2020, the LinQ’s functionality has continued growing thanks to new user-installable modules. At present, the LinQ can be ordered in any combination of four available modules the user wants, meaning one need not pay for options they do not need. And thanks to its modular nature, the modules can always be swapped or added later just by inserting them into one of the four internal slots.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

If you’re new to the LinQ, I recommend reading my original LinQ review<\/a> to learn all the ins and outs. But in short, the LinQ is an RJ45-connected network player, in other words, a streaming endpoint compatible with a wide range of streaming protocols. Aqua made a conscious decision not to use USB for the LinQ in their quest to achieve the best sound. Instead, the unit offers a wide array of connections, such as AQlink, the aqua I2S proprietary connection, as well as S\/PDIF on BNC and RCA, AES\/EBU, and dual-AES outputs, all derived from a custom FGPA.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

AQlink G2 I2S cable<\/em><\/p>\n

All outputs, AQlink included, can be used simultaneously. Depending on the selected output, the maximum resolution is PCM 32-bit 384kHz \/ DSD128.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Squeezelite<\/h3>\n

Like UPnP, Squeeze is a well-established and long-standing streaming protocol supported by many compatible devices. The most well-known are probably the various incarnations of Logitech Squeezebox. The thing is, although the LMS (Logitech Media Server) software is easy to use, highly stable, and can run on any Windows, MacOS, or Linux computer, the Squeezebox hardware devices are far from the first choice to get the best sound quality. I learned this when Squeezebox<\/a> was introduced to me in 2009 by my friend Jeroen, who had faith in the future of streaming audio when I was still playing CDs exclusively. To this day, I’m grateful that he introduced me to the streaming world at that time, as it formed the basis of what would become my long quest for attaining the best in streaming audio.<\/p>\n

But in 2009, despite trying several high-end DACs of the time, such as Mark Levinson, Wadia, Audiomeca, and others, I could not get the system to sound anywhere as good as the Wadia 861 or Levinson 390S playing a CD. As I later learned, the limitation was not in LMS itself but in the Squeezebox network player hardware.<\/p>\n

Although Logitech has long stopped producing Squeeze hardware, the server software and protocol still have a large user base. Further, the SlimProto renderer functionality, which used to be available only in the form of the Squeezebox units, has been converted to an open-source software variant called Squeezelite that can be implemented into other products.<\/p>\n

And this is where it gets exciting!<\/p>\n

As mentioned, Squeeze’s limitation was not the server software or the protocol but the hardware implementation and processing of the streaming endpoints. A tip of this veil had already been lifted for me when I heard the EC Designs BBB (BeagleBoneBlack) streaming interface in 2015 as part of a review of the company’s Mosaic DAC<\/a>. The BBB ran an implementation of Squeezelite and provided a digital output via USB. It wasn’t as good as the best servers I had at the time, but it was significantly<\/em> better than the original Squeezebox player.<\/p>\n

Now, imagine my anticipation when Aqua confirmed to be working on a Squeezelite Renderer module for the LinQ!<\/p>\n

The module has been a reality since late 2023, and I’ve just received a review sample. I added it in the last slot (M4) of my LinQ, next to the UPnP and HQ Player Core + NAA modules, and used it for almost a week before making serious assessments.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

LMS\/Squeeze Operation<\/h3>\n

Like Roon, LMS\/Squeeze is a three-tier ecosystem consisting of a Server, Player, and Controller.<\/p>\n

The server part is Logitech Media Server (LMS), freeware software that runs on Windows, MacOS, or Linux computers. Installation is easy and requires no special knowledge.<\/p>\n

The player part originally came in the shape of the original Squeezebox hardware, but more recently as Squeezelite. This software implementation can run on custom devices like the Aqua Squeezelite renderer module. Although the software is user-installable, the complication is to make it sound really good. Receiving a stream is one thing; converting it into pristine sound and relaying this via a transparent digital audio interface is quite another. This is where Aqua’s expertise comes in.<\/p>\n

There are multiple ways of controlling Squeeze. Logitech has always had a native LMS interface. For the longest time, the interface looked dated, and until not that long ago, I much preferred the third-party iPeng app. However, with the introduction of the Material Skin for the LMS interface, this has been completely turned around. Material Skin has a beautifully clean and easy-to-use layout.<\/p>\n

Compatibility<\/h3>\n

The LMS control interface works on any device with a web browser and any operating system. This includes desktops, phones, and tablets running Windows, Linux, MacOS, iOS, iPadOS, and Android. The LinQ with Squeezelite renderer module is automatically seen as a native zone in the LMS.<\/p>\n

Squeeze also works well with the Innuos Sense Interface in combination with an Innuos server.<\/p>\n

Lastly, and quite importantly, the Roon ecosystem natively supports Squeezelite. After enabling support for Squeeze in Roon settings, you can add the LinQ as an endpoint in Roon and stream to it directly. Like LMS, Roon runs on most devices and operating systems, including MacOS, iOS, Windows, and Android.<\/p>\n

Next: Configuration<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

LMS Configuration<\/h3>\n

To use the LMS interface, launch it using any HTML5-compliant desktop or mobile browser on any device by typing the server’s IP address in the address bar and adding the port, usually :9000. Some server implementations (such as Antipodes AMS) also have a direct link on their web interface to open the associated LMS interface. To update to Material Skin, simply install it via LMS Settings\/Plugins.<\/p>\n

After that, the interface will run without further setup. LMS automatically connects with the Squeeze Server component on your NAS or Music Server and finds the Squeezelite player in the LinQ to provide instant Plug & Play functionality.<\/p>\n

The only thing to look out for is that, as in the Highlander movies, “there can be only one…” One active LMS server at a time that is. When using native LMS, disable Squeeze support in Roon and vice versa.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

LMS offers all the usual functionality, such as browsing by Artist, Album, Genre, Years, and many other tags (all configurable in settings) and Folder browsing. The app also offers well-working Qobuz access, albeit not as deeply integrated as with Roon or JPLAY.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

LMS also offers artist bios and reviews and even fetches a collection of artist images.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Roon Configuration<\/h3>\n

To use Squeeze as an output zone in Roon, first, make sure Logitech Media Server is not running and then enable Squeezebox support in Settings – Setup.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/h3>\n

Enable the zone in Settings – Audio.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Make sure to deselect “Use FLAC Compression” (slide to off).<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Finally, select the newly created zone as the output, and you’re done.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Innuos<\/h3>\n

I do not have Innuos equipment to test with, but according to Aqua, the Innuos Sense interface is compatible and works well.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

The sound of Roon\/UPnP\/Squeeze<\/h3>\n

When I first reviewed the Grimm MU1<\/a>, it had the unique capability of making Roon sound similarly crisp and direct as the LinQ with UPnP, which is why I decided to add the server to my reference system. However, following later firmware updates to the server and ongoing changes to the overall Roon sound quality with every software update, I found myself increasingly drawn to UPnP.<\/p>\n

The switch from Roon was made easy by the Antipodes Oladra<\/a> music server, which can run pretty much any server\/player software under the sun, including UPnP\/MPD and Squeeze LMS\/Squeezelite. The CH C1.2 DAC can be streamed to directly via UPnP and Roon and sounds very different depending on which of the two protocols is used. Interestingly, in 2021, the MU1 used to sound crisper and more articulate via its AES\/EBU output, but now, in 2024, the C1.2 sounds slightly livelier when streaming from Roon to it directly. The C1.2 comes into its own when streamed to via UPnP, and that’s what I have been using the last few months, combined with MinimServer on the Oladra.<\/p>\n

Back to the subject of this review, the Aqua LinQ also sounds fantastic with UPnP. It is slightly less fluid and refined than the C1.2’s streaming input but more energetic and highly engaging. These differences in presentation, which are subject to personal preference aside, I would say the LinQ performs on the same level as the CH DAC with this protocol. One of Squeeze’s attractive qualities, besides its well-thought-out Material Skin interface, is that it is very stable, more so than UPnP. Alas, the CH DAC is not compatible with Squeeze. But now, the LinQ is!<\/p>\n

The LinQ remains my favorite network player, and now that it can also use Squeeze, I was curious to find out, first and foremost, how the sound of the new Squeeze module would compare to UPnP. Secondarily, I wanted to hear how Roon would perform streaming via Squeeze versus streaming via HQ Player Core + NAA.<\/p>\n

Next: Review Context, Listening, and Conclusion<\/em><\/p>\n

<\/p>\n

Review Context<\/h3>\n

The LinQ and the new Sqeezelite renderer module will be listened to in the main system<\/a> in combination with the Precision C1.2<\/a> DAC and Aqua Formula xHD v2<\/a> DAC. The rest of the system comprises the CH Precision L1<\/a> preamplifier, CH Precision A1.5<\/a> power amp, and Magico S1 MkII speakers. Available for comparison are the Grimm MU1<\/a>, XACT S1<\/a>\u00a0and Antipodes Oladra<\/a> Music Servers, and the Aqua La Diva M2<\/a> CD transport. All networked components are connected to the Silent Angel Bonn NX + Genesis GX<\/a> Switch and clock.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Listening<\/h3>\n

I already mentioned that the LinQ sounds fantastic with UPnP. But how does Squeeze compare? To test this under equal circumstances, I enabled both Squeeze and MinimServer on the Oladra and successively streamed to the LinQ via one of them at a time. Now, this was illuminating! So far, I’ve been used to Squeeze sounding engagingly upbeat and propulsive but considerably rougher and more bombastic than UPnP. This time, however, it was a very close call. It took me several comparisons before I could reliably identify one over the other. The difference is minimal, but if you listen attentively using various tracks, what emerges is that Squeeze still has a slightly more forceful delivery, whereas UPnP is slightly more fluid. But that’s it. Otherwise, the two formats are interchangeable. Honestly, I had not seen this coming. But it’s excellent news, as it allows using the LinQ either way that suits best.<\/p>\n

Incidentally, although the CH DAC is my ultimate reference, its steep price makes it unattainable for most audiophiles. Nevertheless, its use in the context of this review beautifully illustrates how well the LinQ performs. Specifically, the LinQ with AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF provides better sound with the C1.2 DAC than native Roon on any of the available servers or Roon directly streaming to the C1.2’s streaming input.<\/p>\n

The LinQ’s superb performance extends to using other, more affordable DACs. Indeed, in my tests, the LinQ performs just as well in combination with the CH DAC as with the Aqua Formula xHD v2 DAC. Speaking of the latter, there is a bonus when using the two together, as this enables AQlink to be used. This Aqua-proprietary I2S connection leads to a marked improvement over using AES\/EBU or S\/PDIF.<\/p>\n

Squeeze sounding this good was the first big surprise, but when I tried Roon with Squeeze, I was in for another surprise!<\/p>\n

The most significant current sonic disadvantage of Roon when playing natively so far has been that I feel the music is being held back from fully expressing itself, a bit like a phono cartridge terminated with a very low resistive value, draining some energy and expression to ground, slowing the pacing, and reducing the spriteliness. But to my astonishment, Roon playing via Squeeze to the LinQ, sounds immediately, and considerably<\/em> better than Roon playing natively! It’s still not quite as incisive and direct as native Squeeze or UPnP, but it is not very far behind, either! Just as I had decided to leave the ecosystem dormant for a while, I must admit not having heard Roon sound this good in a long time.<\/p>\n

But what about HQ Player Core + NAA? \u00a0For those not up to speed, the LinQ is not compatible with Roon RAAT, and HQ Player NAA was the chosen alternative, with the Core + NAA twin module as its ultimate incarnation. Aqua has implemented the functionality so that it is pretty much plug-and-play. The downside of using HQP is that the protocol introduces a short delay when starting, skipping, or stopping the music. Still, I welcomed this method, as I was already starting to get unhappy with Roon, and although HQP was not quite as crisp and transparent as UPnP, this was the only way for me to make Roon sound good.<\/p>\n

But with the Squeeze module, the plot thickens!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Coming from the Squeeze module, HQ Player still sounds very good. I’m not sure if it could be considered strictly better than Squeeze, but it’s definitely different. HQP has a distinctly robust and solid delivery with bass like the famous Wadia 861 CD player, the carved-from-granite kind. It’s rock-solid,\u00a0 impactful, and expressive. The Squeeze module has a nimbler and more light-footed delivery but with the same measure of incisiveness, expression, and dynamics. So, which one is better<\/em>? Honestly, I can’t say, as it will depend on system synergy. For instance, if I still had the Magnepans or Apogee Divas, I would surely have preferred the extra slam and body from the HQ Player module. But with my current Magico S1’s, which, believe it or not, are pretty voluminous in the bass, I currently prefer the Squeeze module.<\/p>\n

I’ve heard the positive influence of using Squeeze as a renderer for Roon on the same server before, but the extent of the improvement was never as profound as it is now with the addition of the LinQ!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

I\u00a0also currently have the\u00a0XACT S1<\/a> UPnP server available for comparison. At 12k, it’s not quite as costly as the Oladra,<\/span> but it still sounds significantly better than Roon on its own on any server, even the Oladra. When using the Oladra with UPnP or Squeeze, it generally sounds best, and in this capacity, it puts up fierce competition for the XACT S1. On their own, the two servers compete in certain areas and differ in others. Of course, comparing servers to network players makes little sense, but I mention this to report what a difference the LinQ can make, even for Roon servers. When switching the Oladra to Roon and streaming via Squeeze to the LinQ, the combo’s performance still leaps ahead of the XACT S1! Now, that is something I did not see coming. Of course, this combination makes little economic sense, but it perfectly illustrates how sophisticated the LinQ is.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Depending on the selected output, the LinQ’s maximum resolution is PCM 32-bit 384kHz \/ DSD128. Roon can automatically resample any sample rate not supported by the DAC or the selected output.<\/em><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

LMS on a regular computer<\/h3>\n

Having such high-end servers available is all well and good, and the results speak for themselves. But I realize it’s likely not what the Squeeze core audience will use.<\/p>\n

It’s worth noting that Antipodes also offers far more affordable servers, especially when opting for a model that focuses predominantly on maximizing its server capacity. The K22<\/a> springs to mind, or the K41<\/a>, which includes the same server engine as the K50.<\/p>\n

But let’s take a few more steps back and install LMS on a standard computer. After all, this is how the ecosystem started, and the freeware nature of the LMS software remains an alluring benefit.<\/p>\n

To test this, I installed LMS on my main Windows PC, which is recent and decently well-specced, but not excessively. It has plenty of processor speed and memory to allow me to do any music playback and office work on an ultrawide monitor without slowing me down, but no more than that. This PC is stationed in another room but connected to the same Router, albeit not via the Silent Angel NX + GX Switch and clock, to mimic a standard implementation that should be achievable even for those on a modest budget.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

The software was easily installed and worked right away. Besides specifying the location of the music library, nothing is required to start playing music. Beyond this, the software offers many user settings that can be controlled from the LMS web interface to tweak the behavior and optimize the sound. However, this is no different for any other LMS server implementation, no matter where it runs.<\/p>\n

Sure enough, Squeeze still sounds great with the LinQ, even when LMS runs on a standard computer. But it wasn’t quite as excellent. That’s expected and only fair, of course. What you lose when running LMS on a regular computer versus on a dedicated high-end server comes down predominantly to precision, refinement, and transparency. The sound is still visceral, propulsive, and powerful but less pure, clean, delicate, and highly resolving. In a word, it’s rougher. But to put this into perspective, I still prefer Squeeze with the LinQ to Roon running natively on any of my servers. And that is quite the achievement.<\/p>\n

I appreciate that in classic Logitech Squeezebox terms, 6.350 euros for the LinQ sounds like a lot of money. But we’re no longer talking DIY\u2014or Sonos-like entry-level sound quality. Even with LMS running on a standard computer, the LinQ takes the squeeze protocol into high-end territory, competing with or outperforming native Roon servers. Moreover, when the LinQ is partnered with a superb music server running LMS or Roon, such as the Antipodes, and streaming to it via UPnP or Squeeze, the combined performance competes with the best servers I heard.<\/p>\n

Conclusion<\/h2>\n

The LinQ has always been a superb network player, but the Squeezelite Renderer module has truly surprised me. The module provides the best route for anyone seeking to extract the best possible sound from the Squeeze format at a more than fair price.<\/p>\n

However, the Squeezelite module is not limited to LMS use. In addition, it elevates Roon’s sound quality when streaming via Squeeze to a level where it royally outperforms native Roon on any server.<\/span><\/p>\n

In these fast-changing times, it’s great to have options. Just as I had decided to stop using Roon for now and focus on UPnP, the Aqua Squeezelite module arrived just in time. It allowed me to keep using the fantastic Roon interface and superb sound quality.<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

Associated Equipment<\/a><\/p>\n

Try out Roon for yourself<\/h3>\n

Get Roon 1 month for free<\/a><\/p>\n

External Links<\/h3>\n

Distributor for the NL\/Belgium: Hexagon Audio<\/a>
\nManufacturer’s website: aquahifi.com<\/a>
\nSignalyst (HQPlayer) website: signalyst.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Read Also<\/h3>\n

Aqua LinQ review part 1 (Initial LinQ review)<\/a>
\nAqua LinQ review part 2 (HQ Player NAA Renderer Module)<\/a>
\nAqua LinQ review part 3 (HQ Player Core + NAA Renderer Module)<\/a><\/p>\n

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