Metrum Acoustics AMBRE ROON endpoint (Silver)
Best digital streamer for audiophiles seeking bit-perfect Roon integration.
Experience bit-perfect digital audio with the Metrum Acoustics Ambre, a ROON-certified endpoint. This versatile device supports various platforms like DietPi and PiCorePlayer, enabling streaming from services such as Qobuz, Logitech Media Server, and UPnP. Metrum Acoustics offers an open platform for software customization. The Ambre is an excellent addition to any audiophile setup, providing I2S, AES/EBU, Spdif, and Toslink outputs. It features high-quality components and a 30 VA toroidal transformer, allowing you to stream high-resolution music directly to your DAC via its LAN input.
$1279.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
44
/ 481
#44 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
Working principle
Linux based ROON end point using femto precision clocks
/ Linux based ROON end point using femto precision clocks
Who it's for
- Audiophiles prioritizing clean, noise-free digital signal transmission
- Roon users seeking a stable, dedicated streaming endpoint
- Listeners with high-end DACs requiring superior I2S connectivity
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level streaming solutions
- Minimalists wanting an all-in-one streaming and DAC unit
- Users needing flexible placement without wired Ethernet access
Performance breakdown
Digital Signal Integrity
Femto precision clocks ensure jitter-free, bit-perfect audio delivery to your DAC.
Connectivity Versatility
Comprehensive output options including I2S and AES/EBU cover every audiophile requirement.
Software Flexibility
Open platform architecture allows for seamless customization beyond standard Roon integration.
Power Supply Quality
The robust 30 VA toroidal transformer provides clean, stable power delivery.
Build Construction
Solid, compact chassis design reflects a premium, purpose-built streaming component.
Network Efficiency
Standard 100 Mbps LAN is reliable but lacks modern gigabit speed overhead.
Key Specs
Working principle
Linux based ROON end point using femto precision clocks
Power supply
30 VA toroidal transformer
Inputs
LAN (local area network) max. 100 Mbps
Outputs
1x optical Toslink, 1x RCA coax, 1x AES/EBU, and I2S
Coaxial/AES/EBU Sampling frequency
44.1 – 192 kHz
Optical Sampling frequency
44.1 – 96 kHz
Power requirement
110/115V AC or 220/230 V AC 60/50Hz
Dimensions (hxwxd)
19 x 6 x 25 cm
Features
- ROON certified digital audio streaming endpoint
- Open platform for multiple streaming services
- Supports I2S, AES/EBU, Coaxial, and Optical outputs
- Galvanic isolation on key digital outputs
- Optimized I2S connection for short distances
- High-resolution audio file playback
- Powered by a 30 VA toroidal transformer
- Flexible software customization options
What customers say
Audiophiles overwhelmingly praise the Metrum Acoustics AMBRE ROON endpoint for its exceptional sound quality. Users report a transformative upgrade, highlighting its natural, transparent audio delivery with impressive detail and expansive soundstaging. The device consistently reveals new musical nuances, allowing high-end DACs to reach their full potential without digital harshness. Beyond performance, customers value its robust build and seamless, stable integration within the Roon ecosystem. It functions as a reliable, set it and forget it component. While premium priced, the consensus is that the Ambre offers significant sonic returns, establishing it as a highly valued, reference level Roon endpoint for serious listeners.
Know before you buy
Being Roon-certified means the Ambre is officially recognized by Roon Labs to work seamlessly with their ecosystem. It allows you to stream your high-resolution music library directly to the device with bit-perfect accuracy, ensuring the Roon software handles the heavy lifting while the Ambre manages the digital output to your DAC.
Yes. Because the Ambre is built on an open platform, it supports alternative software like DietPi and PiCorePlayer. This flexibility allows you to stream from services like Qobuz, Logitech Media Server, or UPnP, depending on the software configuration you choose to install.
The I2S output is generally considered the preferred connection for short distances, as it transmits data and clock signals separately, which can reduce jitter. However, for longer cable runs, the AES/EBU or Coaxial outputs are excellent, high-performance alternatives.
The Ambre features an integrated 30 VA toroidal transformer, so it connects directly to your wall outlet via a standard power cable. You do not need to purchase an external power supply to achieve its rated performance.
The device uses femto-precision clocks to ensure accurate timing during playback. It supports high-resolution audio up to 192 kHz via AES/EBU and Coaxial outputs, and up to 96 kHz via the Optical Toslink output.
If you are using it as a Roon endpoint, the setup is very straightforward and plug-and-play. If you intend to customize the software platform for other services, you will need a basic understanding of how to flash and configure Linux-based audio operating systems.
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