Audiolab
Audiolab 6000N Play
Best high-resolution streamer for audiophiles upgrading their existing hi-fi systems.
The Audiolab 6000N Play is a wireless audio streaming player, integrating seamlessly into the acclaimed 6000 Series. It utilizes DTS Play-Fi technology to stream high-resolution music across your wireless network, supporting expansion into multi-room setups. You can source audio from smartphones, tablets, PCs, or a NAS Drive. Reviewers praise its musicality, strong bass, and excellent value, noting it delivers high-quality sound for its price point, making it a competent streamer for any existing hi-fi system.
$599.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
194
/ 481
#194 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
-84%
Below average
DAC Chip
90182
/ ESKM
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-resolution digital audio clarity
- Homeowners building a synchronized multi-room audio system
- System builders needing versatile analog and digital connectivity
Who should skip it
- Users preferring seamless, intuitive software interfaces
- Listeners who want comprehensive track data on the device
- Roon enthusiasts requiring advanced library management features
Performance breakdown
Audio Fidelity
The ES9018K2M DAC delivers a refined, musical sound with impressive depth.
Streaming Versatility
DTS Play-Fi integration offers robust support for high-resolution network audio sources.
Multi-room Scalability
Seamlessly expands into a cohesive, synchronized home-wide audio ecosystem.
Build Integrity
Solid chassis construction reflects the premium standards of the 6000 series.
Connectivity Options
Essential digital outputs provide reliable links to existing high-end amplifiers.
Software Experience
The Play-Fi app is functional but lacks the polish of premium competitors.
Key Specs
DAC Chip
ES9018K2M
Maximum Resolution
192kHz/24bit
Digital Outputs
1 x coaxial, 1 x optical
Frequency Response
+/-0.5dB (20Hz-20kHz, ref. 1kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
<0.003% (1kHz @0dBFS)
Signal-to-noise Ratio (S/N)
>115dB (A-weighted)
Net Weight
4.9kg
Features
- Integrated DTS Play-Fi technology for high-resolution wireless streaming
- Supports streaming from various network sources including PCs and NAS drives
- Features a built-in high-quality DAC for superior audio conversion
- Enables easy expansion into a multi-room audio system
- Provides a musical sound signature with good bass and rhythm
- Compatible with Spotify Connect for direct service integration
What customers say
Consumers are genuinely impressed by the 6000N Play, consistently highlighting its exceptional audio quality which significantly outperforms its modest price point. The robust build quality ensures reliability, positioning this streamer as a fantastic value proposition for serious listening. While the DTS Play Fi control application occasionally presents minor setup challenges, the overall sentiment strongly favors the rich, detailed sound and seamless integration into existing hi fi systems. This product successfully delivers high end performance without the high end cost.
Know before you buy
The device uses DTS Play-Fi technology, which supports a wide range of popular streaming services like Tidal, Qobuz, Deezer, and Amazon Music. It also features native Spotify Connect integration for seamless playback directly from the Spotify app.
Yes, it is designed to be added to any existing hi-fi system. You can connect it to your amplifier via its analog RCA outputs, or use the optical or coaxial digital outputs if you prefer to use an external DAC.
Yes, the 6000N Play supports high-resolution streaming up to 192kHz/24bit. It features an integrated ES9018K2M DAC chip, ensuring that your high-res files are converted with excellent clarity and detail.
Absolutely. Because it utilizes the DTS Play-Fi platform, you can easily sync the 6000N Play with other Play-Fi enabled speakers or devices throughout your home to create a cohesive multi-room audio system.
Yes, the device is fully compatible with DLNA and UPnP protocols. This allows you to stream your personal music library stored on a PC, Mac, or network-attached storage (NAS) drive over your home Wi-Fi network.
While it features a Wi-Fi connection for wireless convenience, it also includes an Ethernet port on the back. A wired connection is often recommended if you want the most stable performance when streaming high-resolution audio files.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$600