Audiolab
Audiolab 7000N Play DAC
Best high-resolution streamer for audiophiles seeking transparent, detailed sound quality.
The Audiolab 7000N Play is a high-resolution wireless audio streaming DAC designed to integrate seamlessly into any home audio system. It builds upon the legacy of the 6000 series with significant enhancements, featuring the versatile DTS Play-Fi system alongside Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility for broad source access. Reviewers note its well-ordered and uncluttered sound presentation, offering transparency to reveal musical detail with solid, well-formed bass. While it provides a pleasing listening experience, note that it lacks Bluetooth and DSD file support, and the Play-Fi app can feel less responsive than some alternatives.
$999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
148
/ 481
#148 in Stereo Music Streaming Devices
Price vs Category Average
-73%
Below average
DAC Chip
90382
/ ESS Sabre ESQM
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-fidelity digital audio performance
- Music lovers needing versatile multi-room streaming compatibility
- Listeners who value visual feedback and intuitive navigation
Who should skip it
- Users preferring Roon or more robust proprietary software
- Vinyl enthusiasts requiring analog inputs for turntables
- Shoppers comparing features against alternative mid-range streamers
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Delivers an uncluttered, high-resolution soundstage that reveals intricate musical details.
Bass Performance
Provides a solid, well-formed low-end response that anchors the entire mix.
Streaming Versatility
DTS Play-Fi and AirPlay 2 offer broad, reliable access to sources.
App Responsiveness
The Play-Fi interface occasionally feels sluggish compared to modern streaming alternatives.
Connectivity Depth
Lacks Bluetooth and DSD support, limiting options for some niche listeners.
Sound Customization
User-selectable digital filters allow for subtle tailoring of the audio output.
Key Specs
DAC Chip
ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M
Max Sampling Frequency
192kHz / 24-bit
Frequency Response
-0.01dB (20Hz-20kHz, ref.1kHz)
Total Harmonic Distortion
<0.0005% (1kHz @2.1Vrms)
Signal-to-Noise Ratio
>115dB (A-weighted)
Digital Outputs
1 x Coaxial, 1 x Optical
Analog Output
1 x RCA Line Output
Standby Power Consumption
<0.5W
Features
- Brings high-resolution wireless audio streaming to any system
- Supports multi-format, multi-platform DTS Play-Fi streaming
- Includes Apple AirPlay 2 compatibility
- Features user-selectable digital filters for sound customization
- Offers an uncluttered and transparent sound presentation
- Provides solid and well-formed bass response
What customers say
The Audiolab 7000N Play earns high marks for its impressive sound quality and undeniable value proposition. Consumers frequently note the clarity and detail it injects into digital playback, often comparing its performance favorably to much pricier components. While the streaming functionality is deemed reliable, the core appeal remains its ability to transform an audio system with a genuinely high fidelity output for a surprisingly accessible cost. This is a clear winner for listeners prioritizing sonic performance.
Know before you buy
No, the 7000N Play does not feature built-in Bluetooth. It relies on Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections to stream music via DTS Play-Fi and Apple AirPlay 2.
No, the 7000N Play does not support DSD file formats. It is designed to handle high-resolution PCM audio up to 192kHz/24-bit.
The 7000N Play is known for a transparent, uncluttered sound profile that prioritizes detail and a solid bass response. It uses the ESS Sabre ES9038Q2M DAC chip to ensure high-fidelity performance across various genres.
While the DTS Play-Fi platform offers excellent multi-room and multi-platform versatility, some users find the app interface to be less responsive compared to more streamlined streaming alternatives.
Yes, the 7000N Play includes user-selectable digital filters. These allow you to fine-tune the audio output to better suit your personal preferences and your existing audio system.
It provides a standard analog RCA line output for connecting to an integrated amplifier or preamp. Additionally, it features coaxial and optical digital outputs if you prefer to use an external DAC.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.