Network Player LUMIN S2 Silver

LUMIN S2 – network player with X1 architecture, dual ES9038PRO DACs and, for the first time, digital inputs

The LUMIN S2 is a network streaming player with an integrated DAC that brings the architecture of the flagship X1 into the new generation of the S-Series. At its heart sits a pair of ESS SABRE32 ES9038PRO chips in a dual-mono configuration, complemented by the latest LUMIN processor and software system, which delivers greater computing power and storage capacity for more demanding streaming technologies and more flexible resampling. Network playback handles formats up to DSD512 and PCM 384 kHz / 16–32 bit, including full MQA decoding.

The analogue section is taken directly from the X1: the fully balanced dual-mono output stage is terminated by Lundahl LL7401 output transformers, which provide galvanic isolation and signal integrity on both the XLR (6 Vrms) and RCA (3 Vrms) outputs. Timing is handled by a femto clock system with precise distribution via FPGA. Power is supplied by an internal dual-toroidal power supply with separate rails for the digital and analogue sections and low-noise linear regulation; the X-Series specification toroids are shielded and integrated into a single chassis measuring 350 × 380 × 107 mm and weighing 8 kg.

A first among LUMIN players are the SPDIF digital inputs – coaxial RCA and optical TOSLINK, which open up the ES9038PRO DAC implementation to external sources such as CD/SACD transports, computers, set-top boxes or games consoles. The inputs work with PCM 44.1–192 kHz / 16–24 bit and DSD64 in DoP format. A USB digital output with native support for DSD512 and PCM up to 384 kHz is also available.

Splitting the conversion dual-mono with a dedicated chip per channel increases hardware precision and processing headroom, which translates into stable imaging of instruments and clear resolution of low-level detail; separate power rails and femto clocking reduce jitter and the noise floor. Volume is handled by lossless Leedh Processing volume control, which eliminates rounding errors. Connectivity comprises Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 and an industrial SFP optical port, with support for Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay, JPLAY, Audirvāna, KKBOX, Amazon Music and other services, controlled by the LUMIN app for iOS and Android. The firmware is updated on an ongoing basis as part of a continuous development programme.

Key features

• Dual-mono DAC: Two ESS SABRE32 ES9038PRO chips, one per channel
• Output stage: Fully balanced with Lundahl LL7401 transformers
• Digital inputs: Coaxial RCA and optical TOSLINK, PCM 192 kHz, DoP64
• Power supply: Internal dual-toroidal design, separate digital and analogue rails
• Streaming: Roon Ready, TIDAL and Qobuz Connect, DSD512, MQA