HiFi Rose RS520 All-In-One Network Streamer at Vinyl Sound Buffalo, NY USA

The RS520 is an all-in-one network streamer, DAC, and integrated amplifier from HiFi Rose (Seoul, South Korea), available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, New York, USA. Combining a network streaming engine, an ESS SABRE ES9038PRO DAC, and a Class AD GaN FET amplifier rated at 200 watts per channel in a single chassis, the RS520 is a complete high-resolution audio system requiring only loudspeakers. A 12.6-inch TFT LCD capacitive touchscreen provides intuitive control including an interactive graphic equalizer, while support for PCM up to 32-bit/768 kHz and native DSD512 ensures compatibility with all high-resolution audio formats. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Gigabit Ethernet connectivity with AirPlay, DLNA, Roon Ready, and Spotify Connect complete a versatile system that eliminates the need for separate source components, preamplifier, and power amplifier.

ES9038PRO DAC and Class AD GaN FET Amplification

The ES9038PRO from ESS Technology is the flagship SABRE DAC chip, used in reference-grade separates components from established audiophile brands. In the RS520, it handles digital-to-analog conversion for both streaming sources and digital inputs, delivering the low noise and high dynamic range the chip is known for. The amplifier stage employs HiFi Rose's Class AD topology using Gallium Nitride (GaN) FETs as the output switching devices. As in the RA180 integrated amplifier, the GaN FETs dramatically reduce the dead time between switching transitions compared to conventional silicon FET Class D designs, yielding a more linear output and a smoother, more natural character. The RS520 delivers 200 watts per channel, providing drive capability for a wide range of loudspeakers. The 6000-series aluminum chassis is engineered with internal shielding to suppress EMI and RFI, and its geometric design dissipates mechanical vibration.

12.6-Inch Touchscreen, Streaming Services, and Connectivity

The 12.6-inch TFT LCD capacitive touchscreen runs HiFi Rose's interface software with a wide range of display modes including a real-time interactive graphic equalizer visualization. Physical digital inputs include one optical, one coaxial, and one USB audio connection, plus HDMI eARC for TV audio integration. Analog line input accommodates external source components. Outputs include optical, coaxial, a preamp output for a subwoofer or secondary system, and HDMI 2.0 for 4K video at 60 Hz. Network audio services supported include TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, Internet radio, and ROSE Tube and ROSE Podcast. The unit is controlled via the ROSE Connect app for iOS or Android, and can also receive commands via the 12.6-inch touchscreen or front-panel controls.

Key Features

• ESS SABRE ES9038PRO DAC: Flagship ESS DAC chip for high dynamic range, low noise digital-to-analog conversion supporting PCM to 768 kHz and native DSD512.
• Class AD GaN FET Amplifier at 200W per Channel: GaN FET switching reduces dead time versus silicon FET Class D for a smoother, more linear amplifier output.
• 12.6-Inch Capacitive Touchscreen: TFT LCD display with interactive equalizer, album art, and multiple display modes for intuitive in-room control.
• Complete Streaming Platform: Roon Ready, AirPlay, DLNA, Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, and internet radio supported natively.
• HDMI eARC Input: Accepts TV audio for a complete home theater to hi-fi integration.
• 6000-Series Aluminum Chassis: EMI/RFI shielded and vibration-dissipating chassis for a quiet operating environment.
• Flexible Connectivity: Ethernet, Wi-Fi (802.11ac USB dongle), and Bluetooth with optical, coaxial, USB audio, and analog line inputs.
• Preamp Output: Allows connection of an active subwoofer or secondary amplifier zone.
• ROSE Connect App Control: Full remote control from iOS or Android devices.

Technical Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the HiFi Rose RS520?

The HiFi Rose RS520 is an all-in-one network streamer, DAC, and integrated amplifier from Seoul, South Korea, combining an ES9038PRO DAC, a Class AD GaN FET amplifier rated at 200W per channel, and a full-featured streaming engine with a 12.6-inch touchscreen in a single chassis. It is Roon Ready, supports DSD512 and PCM 768 kHz, and is available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, New York, USA.

How does the RS520 compare to the NAD M10 V2?

The HiFi Rose RS520 and the NAD M10 V2 (from Pickering, Ontario, Canada) are both all-in-one streaming integrated amplifiers targeting high-performance compact systems. The NAD M10 V2 uses Purifi Eigentakt Class D amplifier modules at 100W per channel and includes BluOS for streaming, with a smaller 8-inch touchscreen. The RS520 delivers 200W per channel using HiFi Rose's GaN FET Class AD topology, uses the flagship ES9038PRO DAC chip, and features a 12.6-inch touchscreen with an interactive equalizer. The RS520 supports HDMI eARC input and HDMI 2.0 video output, capabilities not present in the NAD M10 V2.

Can the RS520 be used as a preamplifier?

Yes. The RS520 includes a preamp output on RCA, allowing the amplifier section to drive a subwoofer or an additional power amplifier. The RS520 also accepts an analog stereo RCA line input, enabling it to serve as a preamplifier and DAC for an external power amplifier in a separates configuration if preferred.

What streaming services does the RS520 support?

The RS520 natively supports TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple Music, Spotify Connect, internet radio, ROSE Tube, and ROSE Podcast. It is Roon Ready for Roon endpoint playback, and supports AirPlay and DLNA for wireless streaming from Apple devices and NAS drives. Bluetooth audio is also available.

Where can I buy the HiFi Rose RS520 in Buffalo or the USA?

The HiFi Rose RS520 All-In-One Network Streamer is available at Vinyl Sound in Buffalo, New York, an authorized HiFi Rose dealer serving customers across the USA. Vinyl Sound carries the full HiFi Rose range, including separates components for customers who may wish to expand their system in future.