The Lumin D1 Music Server – Compromises on Price but Not On Quality

Hong Kong based Lumin are best known for their A1 network audio streamer which was released in 2012. The focus behind creating the Lumin A1 was to create the best music streaming source possible, at any price, using the highest grade components. Unsurprisingly, the result was one of the best reviewed audio products of 2013/2014. Whilst expense was no issue when designing the Lumin A1, with the new D1 music server, the aim was to create a product with much reduced costs, but without compromising on music quality. The result is sound quality that far exceeds what is expected of an entry level player.

The main changes between the A1 and D1

By making simple changes such as reducing the size of the D1’s casing, removing the HDMI output and using an auto ranging power supply rather than the A1’s external power supply, Lumin have been able to cut costs considerably. Whilst the A1 retails at a shade under £5,000, by making these changes, the Lumin D1 retails at only £1,590. Despite these huge savings in terms of cost, there is absolute minimal compromise in terms of musicality and overall sound quality. The Lumin D1 is essentially the same as the A1 but in cheaper packaging.

Even at a considerably reduced price, the D1 music server still uses the highest-grade matching components, resulting in a very similar sound performance to that of the A1. Despite being a digital audio source, the Lumin D1 is distinctly analogue sounding, with a real warmth and density. Instruments and voices are extremely well reproduced in high-definition; there is plenty of space between each musician heard, leaving all elements of the music distinct, whilst still forming a complete sound.

Audio formats

The Lumin D1 music server is practically universal in terms of the range of audio file formats that it is equipped to play, from MP3 and internet radio streams, popular formats such as FLAC and Apple Lossless, as well as DSD lossless and high-resolution PCM, which arguably creates the most pleasing results from the D1, with DSD coming a close second.

Whilst audiophiles will always be searching for high-resolution, vinyl quality sound, one of the major benefits of the D1 is that it’s designed to provide the best possible sound for all audio file formats. Whilst DSD and PCM will no doubt provide the most high-definition listening experience, CD quality audio formats will still sound much improved.

A seamless listening experience

The Lumin D1 is designed for simple, yet superior playback experience. Each track skips onto the next with gapless playback, and on-device playlists are also possible, allowing you to be in complete control of your listening. Whilst some music servers can distract from your listening experience as each track takes a second or two to load, the D1 ensures that listening is completely seamless.

In addition to the device itself, its functionality is controlled by the Lumin iPad app, which is designed to make music browsing and selection as seamless as listening. The app is visually rich and appealing and easy to navigate. Lumin understand that album artwork is still an important part of the musical selection process, so the visual focus is on images rather than filenames and data.

The overview

Whilst many people would fear the compromise on quality compared to the much more expensive A1, the Lumin D1 still aims to provide the best listening experience, but for a much lower price and it delivers on this promise. By identifying which elements of the A1 were a less important part of the build, whilst saving considerable costs, Lumin have developed a music server that full, warm sound that is ideal for all vinyl fans and music lovers.