Researching different streaming amplifiers for purchase. The RS520 is on the list. Lots to like, but I’m reading about issues on this forum that are not resolved and that’s giving me pause. Would like to hear from owners of the RS520, if you’re happy with the unit and that issues are getting resolved.
Comparing the RS520 to other Mfg’s are these teething issues? Do you regret your purchase? While I like the idea of an all in one unit, if HiFi Rose, and other all in one mfg’s are having continual issues, I would consider going separates…Thanks in advance.
I bought mine from the USA distributor in 2023. I use it mainly for Music Discovery, using RS520 USB input, listening to whatever I have playing from Web Browser on my Windows PC. I do use Roon sometimes. I did not face any issues so far. I am almost fully satisfied with it for my needs.
It was a bit frustrating that in some cases VU meter does not work, and that it had no dedicated Subwoofer out. (I connected Subwoofer to RS520 PreAmp output)
I had tried EVO 150 from Cambridge Audio for 2 weeks at home, before settling on RS 520.
Before RS520, and EVO 150, I was using Nord Three SE 1ET400A MKII Dual Mono Stereo Amp from NordAcoustics, UK, based on Purify class D modules rated at 230Watts @8 Ohms, it is not a streamer. I still have it and may go back to it for a change.
WiiM Amp, RS520, EVO150 and NORD , were all attempts to recover from the sad loss of a DIY Amplifier I had made long ago using ILP UK, 2 X MOS248 modules. I had it for a very long time ~30 years, was very happy with it after I wired in a new PreAmp module, Every Amp sounds different.
Unfortunately ILP Electronics UK is no more in business.
Good luck with your Amp purchase.
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Thanks for taking the time to respond. I like the look and capabilities of the RS520. But if the mfg is still having issues with the unit it makes me hesitant to spend the money on it. It’s been out what 3 years? I’m also considering a Yamaha A-S1200 and using a CXN100 for streaming. I like the idea of an all in one unit. But not if the reliability isn’t there.
Depends on what you are planning to do with it. Rose’s software is, sadly, quite a bit behind competitors. Hardware seems to be quite fine and you can’t really determine the failure rate from forums – people with no problems do not complain.
As a Roon endpoint it has been faultless, and that’s how I use it 95% of the time. I occasionally queue something from Qobuz directly, or put Youtube New Year fireworks on, and haven’t had any problems with it, but did not use it enough to say that it always works.
Perhaps you should explain what is important for you.
There are so many features & functions but which ones do you absolutely need? Which are nice to have and so on…
I only use radio and local music from FLAC files on the internal SSD
I use the internal amplifier with direct attached speakers
i use the pre out to a external amplifier and a 2nd set of speakers
…
There is a learning curve which makes studying and testing necessary. After all, digital audio devices are like personal computers.
The support forum here is really good! The staff from ROSE are there to help and are really friendly, the user base is also there to help !
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Thank you for taking the time to answer. Your and others opinions and information provided, help out greatly in my decision process.
If I end up purchasing, I would be using the RS520 to primarily stream audio from different sources for the most part. It would not be hooked up to a tv. I would also purchase an external phono pre amp. I like the appearance and power of the RS520, and being able to run so many apps.
The big display is a plus for me. I look at it as an all-in-one that I could build from. I would also hook up a portable drive that contains all my music. I see these type units as the future. I’m aware that it’s not going to compete against a 10k-15k separates system.
What I’m unaware of…is HiFi Rose fixing any known issues and what exactly are the known issues…If any. At this point, I imagine long term reliability is an unknown. The 1 year warranty is a drawback. For peace of mind I would probably purchase through Crutchfield and buy an extended warranty. Other manufacturers offer better warranties from the factory.
In my opinion, the RS520 is the best looking all-in-one on the market today. I appreciate any information/opinions provided. Thanks again.
I didn’t mention in my replies that the RS520 would be driving a pair of Wharfedale Super Lintons. If anyone else is using these speakers I would be greatly interested in how the RS520 and the Wharfedales match up.
I should add while I anticipate buying the Wharfedale Super Lintons, I have not purchased. I have the RS520 and Lintons in my Crutchfield cart. But still deciding at this point. I’m also considering the KEF R3 Meta, PSB Passif 50 and KLH Model 5. I’ve added or deleted items in my cart more times than I can remember at this point.
The amplifier in 520 is not the absolute best one could get. For everything else it is as good as a $10K, or $100K system.
They are fixing them, but on their schedule and their priorities. Better would be to specify which functionality you require and check whether those pieces currently work well.
Thar’ really something that can’t be determined without listening to them in your room. All are pretty good speakers, so you’d have to try them… 
Nuclear Dog,
You have to define reliability. The hardware is the absolute best. Impeccable. There isn’t anything close.
The software functionality must be parsed. Is it stable? Yes. It is rock solid. There are a myriad of features and options. Many more than in any other competing device. Do they all work? Yes. Is the GUI interface beautiful? Absolutely. However, are they all easy to use and intuitive? No. Are there some use cases where they don’t work in the manner in which you would expect? Absolutely. Could the decision tree be better arranged? Without question. Are there some quasi essential functions missing? Yes. Does it have a steep learning curve? Yes, absolutely.
So in the end you have to try the software to see if it works for you.
StandardModel
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I am using the RS520 for about one week. So, I have not that much experience with it so far. However, up to now, I am very satisfied with it. With my Focal Sopra No. 2, it does sound really good. I compared it with a NAIM Uniti Nova and a Lyngdorf TDAI-3400 and to me it sounded really similar for a much lower price.
There are still some software bugs and some strange translations, but overall these are minor issues compared to the overall performance of the device. I would buy it again.
Perhaps if HiFI Rose offered a better warranty I wouldn’t be hesitant. But I can purchase a 4 year warranty for $299. Still other manufacturers offer 5 year warranties and you can purchase another 4 years if you so choose. For the price nobody offers what the RS520 provides. I tend to spend time researching products before I buy. What I’ve looked concerning the RS520 is impressive.
dtp,
If you can live with the software limitations, nothing comes close to HiFi Rose.
StandardModel
I have had the rs520 for about 6 months and I absolutely love it.I am using it to add to a 5.1.4 surround system comprised of a Marantz Cinema 40,MiniDSP SHD,Arendal 1723 towers and center,surround,and 4Klipsch in ceiling speakers.Using Roon with Tidal and Quobuz as source with full acoustical treatment.I would say that even with separates in the same or 2x the investment,you would be hard pressed to get better SQ. As far as updates etc I think Rose does a great job.I would definitely buy again.Good luck and let us know what you ended up with!
Newbie here – do you mind me asking how all these devices fit together?