French manufacturer Octavio has made a big splash with its new Stream G2 network player, a remarkable development that propels this small, discreet box to the ranks of high-fidelity streaming standards. Awarded a prestigious Diapason d’Or, this technological powerhouse completely rethinks the approach to home audio streaming.
Understanding the usefulness of a network player in the modern audio ecosystem
A network player acts as a smart bridge between your digital music sources and your amplification system. It retrieves audio files from various sources (streaming services, local servers, network storage) and converts them to analog or transmits them digitally to an external converter.
Key benefits of a dedicated network drive :
| Advantage | Description | Impact |
| Superior conversion quality | Specialized DAC components vs. basic smartphone circuits | Immediate sound improvement |
| Electromagnetic isolation | Drastic reduction of interference | Purer and more detailed sound |
| Network stability | Connection optimized for high resolution | Listen without interruption |
| Extended compatibility | Native support for high-definition audio formats | Access to all your content |
| Dedicated interface | Control optimized for music listening | Superior user experience |
These technical advantages translate into an immediately noticeable sound improvement, more than justifying the investment represented by the Stream G2.
Distinguishing between audio streamer, network player and DAC
Terminological confusion often reigns in the world of digital audio, where the terms “streamer,” “network player,” and “DAC” are sometimes used interchangeably. This confusion can lead to inappropriate equipment choices, hence the importance of clarifying these concepts.
| Device type | Main function | Integrated DAC | Digital output | Example of use |
| DAC | Digital → analog conversion | Yes (single function) | Non | Improve a CD player |
| Streamer audio | Network stream reception | Variable | Variable | Adding streaming to a channel |
| Network player | Full network reading | Generally yes | Often yes | Scalable, versatile solution |
Detailed definitions
- DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter) : fundamental component which transforms the digital signal into an analog signal usable by an amplifier
- Streamer audio : device capable of receiving an audio stream from the internet or a local network
- Network player : device capable of playing audio content from a network, generally integrating a DAC section and often offering a digital output
The Octavio Stream G2 excels at precisely this versatility, offering both options at a competitive price.
Octavio: French craftsmanship at the service of connected audio
French company Octavio has built a solid reputation in the world of connected audio by adopting expertise in the transmission and faithful reproduction of digital audio signals. This philosophy translates into products designed to integrate seamlessly into existing high-fidelity systems.
Octavio’s fundamentals
- Scalability : products designed to last for years
- Modularity : solutions adaptable to existing systems
- Software updates : continuous support for technological developments
- Sustainable material architecture: sustainable investment
Octavio‘s approach is based on a detailed understanding of the expectations of French audiophiles, who often favor scalability and modularity over a turnkey solution.
The legacy of the first generation Octavio Stream
Before analyzing the developments brought by the second generation, it’s worth recalling the qualities that made the original model a success. The first-generation Octavio Stream had already made an impression with its ultra-compact format and ease of integration. This pioneer already offered quality Wi-Fi connectivity and extensive compatibility with major streaming services.
However, like any first-generation product, it had some limitations that user feedback helped identify. The analog conversion section, while decent, suggested room for improvement. Handling certain high-resolution formats sometimes required adjustments, and the control application lacked the fluidity that modern users rightfully expect.
These observations informed the thinking that led to the development of the Stream G2, incorporating the lessons learned while retaining the original philosophy that had won over the music-loving community.Above all, Octavio has achieved this evolution without a significant price increase, preserving the accessibility that has made the brand successful.
Stream G2: The Game-Changing Evolution
The Octavio Stream G2 is the natural outcome of this continuous improvement process. This new version incorporates substantial improvements in both technical and ergonomic terms.
At its price point, it undeniably represents the best gateway to audiophile streaming.
Design: functional elegance reinvented
L’eThe aesthetics of the Octavio Stream G2 perfectly illustrate the “less is more” philosophy that characterizes contemporary French design.
| Element | Specification | Advantage |
| Dimensions | Ultra-compact | Easy integration into any listening space |
| Materials | Premium ABS white and black | Elegant and durable finish |
| Controls | Two touch buttons | Simple and discreet interface |
| Connectivity | Analog/digital combo output | Space optimization |
| Food | USB-C | Modern standard, reduced clutter |
Technical innovation: the combo output
The rear panel reveals the design intelligence with the combination of a 3.5 mm mini-jack analog output and a Mini-Toslink optical digital output in the same connector. This solution allows:
- Reduce clutter
- Maintain versatility of use
- Optimize available space
The technological heart revealed
The internal architecture reveals the technological choices that justify the exceptional performance of the Stream G2.
| Component | Specification | Sound impact |
| DAC chip | Burr-Brown PCM5102A | Exceptional musicality and precision |
| Maximum resolution | 24 bits / 192 kHz | Full high-resolution compatibility |
| Platform | Linkplay (world reference) | Extended stability and compatibility |
| EMI shielding | Optimized | Sound purity in the home environment |
| Food | USB-C with advanced filtering | Background noise reduction |
The Burr-Brown PCM5102A chip
This chip, recognized in the industry for its exceptional sound qualities, has been specifically optimized for this application. It fully exploits its capabilities, offering:
- Up to 24-bit/192 kHz resolution
- Exceptional musicality
- Remarkable precision
- Extended dynamics
Recommended associations: enhance your installation
Stream G2 + Mission 778x amplifier
The neutrality of the Stream G2 blends perfectly with the musical signature of the British Mission 778x amplifier. This integrated amplifier brings its typically British warm colouration, creating a particularly appealing sound balance. The combination also benefits from the 778x‘s integrated phono section, allowing a turntable to be integrated into the same system for a complete analogue/digital approach.
Stream G2 + DAC D7
Audiolab‘s British expertise in digital-to-analogue conversion unleashes the full potential of the Octavio Stream G2‘s digital transport. By delegating conversion to the DAC D7, the Stream G2 focuses solely on receiving and transporting the digital signal, thereby optimising every link in the chain. This separation of functions reveals a precision and openness of soundstage that is impossible to achieve with analogue output alone, fully justifying the investment in an external DAC of this quality.
Stream G2 + DAC100 Atoll
This 100% French alliance between Octavio and Atoll reveals remarkable sonic consistency, the result of a shared audio philosophy that prioritises musical emotion over pure technical performance. Atoll’s DAC100 brings its warm signature sound and natural dynamics, enhancing the precise digital transport of the Stream G2. This French-French synergy also guarantees a coordinated after-sales service approach and long-term scalability, two significant advantages for audiophiles concerned about the longevity of their investment.
G1 versus G2: significant developments
The comparison between the two generations reveals a controlled evolution, favoring substance over the announcement effect.
| Criteria | Stream G1 | Stream G2 | Improvement |
| DAC chip | Standard | Burr-Brown PCM5102A | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Max resolution | 24/192 (limited) | 24/192 (optimized) | ⭐⭐ |
| Application | Mobile only | Mobile + Desktop | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| WiFi stability | Correct | Excellent | ⭐⭐ |
| User interface | Basic | Modern and fluid | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price | Accessible | Always accessible | ⭐ |
Major improvements
1. Analog conversion section
- G1 : correct quality
- G2 : notable qualitative step with the Burr-Brown PCM5102A chip
- Impact : amélioration sensible de la précision, dynamique et musicalité
2. Application Octavio Virtuose G2
- New platforms: Mac and PC in addition to mobile
- Redesigned interface: modern standards
- Features: simplified configuration + advanced functions
3. Stability and performance
- Optimized WiFi
- Better handling of high-resolution formats
- Improved usability
Octavio has incorporated all of these improvements without any major price impact.
Our verdict: an accessible revelation
Our dual-configuration test, with an entry-level amplifier and then a high-end DAC, reveals the Stream G2. Connected to a Mission 778x, its transparency and openness are surprising. Connected to DAC D7, it reveals musicality that far exceeds its price range.
A direct comparison with a CD player using the same DAC confirms the benefits of streaming: a more open soundstage, more precise staging, and a more airy reproduction. Audible differences that fully justify the investment.
L’Octavio Stream G2 transcends its class by offering performance, simplicity, and versatility in an ultra-compact format. Whether you’re upgrading an existing system or building your first HiFi setup, this French network player is a smart choice.
Its price-performance ratio is unbeatable, while its French design guarantees long-term support and scalability. For us, the Octavio Stream G2 is well worth our attention and stands out as the benchmark in its category.
Available on maPlatine.com with the cable of your choice (RCA or optical) to perfectly adapt to your configuration.