Published On: February 3, 2025

HiFi Rose RS151: Is This the Ultimate Audiophile Streamer?

Published On: February 3, 2025
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HiFi Rose RS151: Is This the Ultimate Audiophile Streamer?

The HiFi Rose RS151 is here, promising serious audiophiles a feature-loaded streamer with high-resolution audio, a sleek design, and an upgraded interface.

HiFi Rose RS151: Is This the Ultimate Audiophile Streamer?

HiFi Rose has just rolled out its latest network streamer, the RS151, stepping up from the RS150 with a host of hardware and software upgrades. The Korean brand has fine-tuned the digital processing and physical design, aiming to deliver better performance and a smoother user experience.

At the core of the RS151 is HiFi Rose’s Digital Processing Core (DPC) module, first seen in the RD160 DAC. This module works by synchronizing the digital signal sent to the DAC with a high-precision Femto clock, which helps cut down on jitter and keep the signal as clean as possible. By keeping this module separate from the CPU circuitry, HiFi Rose aims to reduce unwanted distortion and interference, leading to more natural-sounding playback.

The ES9039PRO DAC chip and its Hyperstream technology handle digital-to-analog conversion. By keeping the digital and analog paths separate, the RS151 is designed to maintain a cleaner signal for a more immersive listening experience. It supports high-resolution audio up to 32-bit/7268kHz and DSD512, making it a solid choice for audiophiles who want top-tier sound quality.

HiFi Rose RS151 front view.
HiFi Rose RS151 rear view.

One of the biggest upgrades in the RS151 is the 15.4-inch Full HD touchscreen display, a step up from the previous model. With its wider viewing angles and sharper resolution, navigating the interface is easier than ever. You can also control the streamer using the Rose Connect app or the included IR remote.

When it comes to connectivity, the RS151 is well-equipped to fit into almost any setup. Here’s what it offers:

  • Digital Inputs/Outputs: HDMI eARC, Hi-Res Coax, AES/EBU, USB, optical
  • Analog Inputs/Outputs: RCA, XLR
  • Wireless Streaming: Bluetooth 5.4 (powered by a Qualcomm chipset)
  • Streaming Services: Roon Ready, AirPlay, Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, DLNA, UPnP
  • Local File Playback: Supports music stored on local network storage and USB drives
HiFi Rose RS151 in living room.

The ROSE OS (Android 12-based) platform runs the show, supporting CD playback and ripping (if you connect an external optical drive) and even video playback via apps like Tidal and Rose Tube.

The RS151 is housed in a 30mm-thick CNC-machined aluminum chassis, designed not just for looks but also for efficient heat dissipation. HiFi Rose has kept the assembly joints to a minimum, which may help reduce internal vibrations and unwanted noise.

Inside, an upgraded 8-core CPU provides four times the processing power and eight times the graphics performance compared to earlier HiFi Rose models. This boost should make browsing and accessing your music library faster and smoother.

HiFi Rose RS151 in black color.

The ROSE Audio Engine, an in-house development, is designed to ensure clean signal delivery to the DAC. Meanwhile, the analog stage benefits from a Noise Reduction Analog (NRA) filter, which aims to keep the frequency response as flat as possible while reducing noise. Additionally, high-precision MELF resistors and WIMA film capacitors are used in the DAC circuit, contributing to signal clarity.

The HiFi Rose RS151 is available now at Crutchfield for $4,995. It comes in black or silver, so you can choose the finish that best matches your setup.

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