Wireless DAC

The AirStream is an interesting product.

It's a wireless DAC, nothing more, but in its standard setup the way it goes about it is rather quirky.

Instead of piggybacking on your home network, the AirStream creates its own wireless network you log on to. Reading the short instruction booklet is vital. Once your computer (and optional iPhone/touch) is on the AirStream's network, functionality is flawless. No hard connection is required (or even possible, as the RJ-45 connector on the back isn't active). The niche for the AirStream is certainly for those who can't get their computer physically near the audio system and don't have a wired LAN.

   
To minimize jitter the AirStream uses an elaborate power supply to clean up the incoming AC in conjunction with a specially designed, internal 25 mHz clock. So while it is based on Apple's Airport Express, it is not "just" an Airport Express.
    
One frustration with this setup is that it takes your laptop off your home network. So it isn't able to surf the web, it's just a music server at this point. Also, at least for me, my music is predominantly on my big, real computer. Without access to my home network, this computer might as well not exist.

You can configure the AirStream to be on your home network, but to do that you'll need to download instructions from their website, and the AirPort Utility from Apple. The process isn't confusing, but it is elaborate. If you're not a computer person, best to bribe someone who is with cookies. After it's on your network, you can enable it by selecting the AirStream like it's a pair of speakers in iTunes itself.

   
Control can be from iTunes directly, or better yet, the Remote App from Apple. If you have an iPhone or touch you can download this free app and it will let you control your iTunes remotely. Better yet, it displays the cover art, lets you search and so on. Everyone with an iPhone/touch should get this app.
    
Sound quality is very good. Much smoother than a basic iPod dock, though not quite as buttery as the wired DACs here. During my testing there were no dropouts or hiccups that you'd fear from a wireless connection.
 
The AirStream is a great solution for a specific set of problems, but it sounds good and fits that niche perfectly.

PRICE:
AirStream WM-10: $1,595

CONTACT: micromega-hifi.com

Check out our feature for more on HiFi Digital Audio.