Emerson ANALOG
Best compact streamer for audiophiles seeking a minimalist, high-fidelity setup.
The Wattson Audio Emerson ANALOG is a compact, all-in-one solution for integrating network audio streaming into your existing sound system. It connects directly between your network and amplifier, simplifying setup by eliminating multiple devices and cables. Engineered with a proprietary streaming engine and a high-quality DAC, it ensures bit-perfect audio data integrity for Hi-Res formats like PCM and DSD without transcoding. Its solid aluminum casework and user-friendly app control offer a blend of sophisticated engineering and minimalist design, delivering high-end performance in a discrete package.
$1750.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
197
/ 511
#197 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
-53%
Below average
Streaming Engine
Wattson Audio proprietary, based on Texas Instruments Sitara processor
/ Wattson Audio proprietary, based on Texas Instruments Sitara processor
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a warm and natural analog sound signature
- Listeners prioritizing long-term durability and vibration-free performance
- Minimalists preferring a straightforward, menu-free listening experience
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for an affordable entry point
- Users needing integrated streaming or versatile digital connectivity
- Owners wanting a plug-and-play solution without complex system matching
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
Bit-perfect processing delivers exceptional clarity for high-resolution audio files.
Build Quality
Solid billet aluminum construction offers a premium, vibration-resistant foundation.
Setup Simplicity
Streamlined design eliminates cable clutter for a clean, minimalist integration.
Software Experience
Intuitive app control provides a smooth, responsive interface for daily listening.
Jitter Reduction
Dual ultra-low-noise oscillators ensure precise timing for superior signal integrity.
Connectivity Versatility
Limited physical inputs prioritize a focused, dedicated streaming experience over flexibility.
Key Specs
Streaming Engine
Wattson Audio proprietary, based on Texas Instruments Sitara processor
DAC
Cyrus/Wolfson WM8742
Clocking
Dual ultra-low-noise oscillators for 44.1kHz and 48kHz base frequencies
Volume Control
LEEDH adjustment of output level
Casework
Milled from solid billet aluminum with powder coating
Connectivity
Network interface
Supported Formats
Hi-Res PCM and DSD (without transcoding)
Control
Wattson Remote for Android, Wattson Music for iOS
Features
- All-in-one network streamer and DAC
- Simplifies audio system setup
- Bit-perfect digital data path
- Minimizes jitter with clock signals
- Loss-less volume control
- Compact solid aluminum casework
- Mobile app control
- Continuous software updates
What customers say
The Emerson ANALOG receives strong praise, especially for its exemplary sonic performance. Owners consistently highlight the natural, detailed, and cohesive soundstage delivered despite the unit's small footprint. The Swiss engineering ensures admired build quality, suggesting long-term reliability. Integration with platforms like Roon is seamless, providing a smooth user experience. The main considerations for buyers are the premium price point and the minimalist design, which lacks digital inputs found in some competing devices. Ultimately, those prioritizing absolute sound quality and elegant simplicity view this component as a benchmark product.
Know before you buy
No, it is an all-in-one device. It features an integrated high-quality DAC, so you can connect it directly to your amplifier or active speakers.
You control the device using the Wattson Music app for iOS or the Wattson Remote app for Android. The device utilizes LEEDH processing for lossless digital volume control, ensuring audio quality remains intact even when you adjust the level.
The Emerson ANALOG is designed specifically for network streaming. It connects to your system via Ethernet or Wi-Fi and does not feature USB or Bluetooth inputs.
Yes, the device is engineered to handle Hi-Res PCM and DSD files natively. It processes these formats without transcoding, preserving the integrity of the original audio data.
No, the Emerson ANALOG is designed as a dedicated, high-performance stereo streamer and does not support multi-room audio functionality.
To ensure precise timing, the unit uses dual ultra-low-noise oscillators specifically tuned for 44.1kHz and 48kHz base frequencies. This clocking architecture minimizes jitter for a cleaner, more accurate signal.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.