CONCLUSION

The Stream Magic 6 is quite a box of tricks – and very easy to use from an iPhone or iPad communicating through a domestic wi-fi link. Only security passwording frustrates this process a little so it’s best to use an iPad that is not passworded.

The Stream Magic’s own display isn’t so great, being usable but not very friendly in its sequential layout, in comparison to an Apple screen. All current network players suffer this (Cyrus apart), but the Stream Magic 6 on-board display is still rudimentary.

Balancing this is a great range of abilities and enormous processing power, if with a few limitations here and there, like its peculiar inability to read 24/192 from a USB memory stick. However, performance of its on-board Wolfson DACs was superb and sound quality from the analogue outputs beyond criticism. I was taken aback at some of what I heard, such as full 24/192 replay from a Mac Book Pro. The Stream Magic 6 is a “must have” irrespective of my minor criticisms, it does so much so well, making great digital sound quality available at a very affordable price.

VERDICT

A complicated Network Player, but  one of wide ability and advanced performance. Great sound at a reasonable price.

FOR

- clean hi-def sound

- many inputs & outputs

- internet radio

AGAINST

- no 24/192 from USB key

- no digital output, USB in

- mediocre display panel

CAMBRIDGE AUDIO  STREAM MAGIC 6    £699

www.cambridgeaudio.com