Octavio Stream G2 network player

The Octavio Stream G2 network player is the evolution of the French manufacturer's best-seller. It includes the majority of the functions that have made it successful while integrating new technological innovations, still in a very small box!

Octavio Stream G2: case and cable

The Octavio is a network player presented in an elegant white and black ABS case. Its “ridiculous” dimensions can be a little confusing, but don’t be fooled!

On the top, two tactile “buttons” allow you to start playback, pause and go to the next song.

On the back of the device we find an analog output in mini-Jack 3.5 format and in this same connection a Mini-Toslink optical digital output. Power is supplied via a USB-C socket and a small DC box provided.

For cost reasons, the Octavio only comes with one audio cable. You must therefore choose the version that suits you according to your devices:

• either an RCA cable (Hi-Fi amplifier, etc.)
• either a mini Toslink optical cable to connect it to a DAC

As an option, Octavio offers a specific cable to connect the device to the wired network: The Octavio Ethernet

Octavio Stream G2 : technology

Internally, internal digital/analog conversion is done via the chip Burr-Brown PCM5102A. This DAC part of Octavio fully exploits the audio capabilities of the integrated technology, offering audio resolution up to 24bits/192KHz. This new DAC has been chosen and optimized to obtain even more precise sound reproduction and increased musicality.

The integrated technology is based on a Linkplay chip, which is the global benchmark in the world of connected audio. The electronic card was developed in-house. It is designed with robust and reliable components to promise long-lasting reliability. Audio processing has been optimized to be immune to any electronic or electromagnetic interference.

In addition, this technology has been designed to last for years and support a good number of updates as streaming services evolve, in order to ensure the durability over time of the Octavio Stream network player.

Octavio's multi-room technology allows you to group up to 12 devices from the Octavio range together to broadcast the same music on several devices in different rooms. In this configuration, the audio processing applied guarantees synchronized and seamless sound in Lossless quality (up to 16 bits / 44.1 KHz).

Octavio Stream G2 : connexion

The connection to the Box is via WiFi Lossless. This offers at least CD quality (i.e. 16 bits / 44.1 KHz) and can reach a Hi-Res format (24 bits / 192KHz) for the most demanding. A status LED is displayed when configuring the device.

It is possible to connect it to the wired network via the optional “Octavio Ethernet” cable.

Octavio allows you to connect directly to the biggest streaming services (Qobuz, AirPlay 2, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Music, Tidal, Google Cast 2 etc …) and to your online radio to allow you to enjoy your music without constraints.

Thanks to UPnP technology, Octavio is also able to receive your titles stored on your smartphone, computer or local server (NAS).

Octavio Stream G2 : installation

Implementation couldn't be simpler. Once connected to your amplifier, the Octavio Stream G2 network player speaks to you and indicates the connection status.

Of course, beforehand, you will have downloaded the Octavio Virtuose G2 application (iOS or Android) onto your tablet or smartphone. This new application dedicated to product configuration is now available on Mac and PC.

But streaming your music is now done via official streaming applications thanks to the Google Cast, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect or Tidal Connect features.

Octavio Stream G2: testing and listening

Octavio Stream G2 uses specific Wi-Fi audio technology, unlike Bluetooth, this Wi-Fi ensures perfect, uncompressed reproduction of music. 

We tested this Octavio Stream G2 network player in two stages.

Firstly, on an entry-level Hi-Fi amplifier (ROTEL A10) connected with an RCA cable. The restitution is very transparent and the dynamics and openness are surprising. In any case, blindly, it is impossible to think for a second that we are in the presence of a product below 300 euros!

Secondly, we connected it to a high-performance digital/analog converter (DAC). From the first seconds, we were “stunned” by the quality of reproduction of this little box! The result is simply stunning.

Of course, the quality and the various restitution parameters (definition, transparency, timbre) are closely linked to the performance of the DAC. However, in direct comparison with a CD drive on the same DAC, we notice very marked differences. The soundstage is, for example, more open and deep with the Octavio. We also note a better layout of the plans.

This “mini” Octavio Stream G2 network player is a real revelation! It is designed for music lovers with quality entry-level systems and wishing to adopt streaming in a simple and inexpensive way.

At the price offered, the Octavio has no competition in terms of possibilities, ergonomics and musicality. For us, “made in France” is a significant plus! 

Our favorite!