A dedicated server platform with room to expand

The Innuos ZEN Next-Gen is a music server and streamer built around the company’s PreciseAudio mainboard rather than a general-purpose computer platform placed in an audio case. Its embedded Intel Core i3 processor provides four physical and four virtual cores, supported by 16GB of industrial DDR4 memory. The operating system runs from a separate industrial 3D TLC SSD with power-loss protection.

Power comes from the RECAP2 NGaN supply, which combines active rectification and regulation designed for low electrical noise. Innuos separates the operating-system drive, processor platform and digital-output functions so activity in one section is less likely to disturb another. The full-width chassis also supports the company’s vibration-control approach rather than leaving sensitive boards attached to a thin computer enclosure.

Storage is modular. Compatible configurations can reach 16TB by combining internal and externally accessible M.2 NVMe drives through the Innuos XSM storage system. That capacity is useful for large local libraries, while an owner focused on streaming can avoid buying unused space. CDs may be imported through a compatible external USB optical drive once storage is installed.

Standard USB output can be supplemented by optional SPDIF, PhoenixUSB Lite or PhoenixI2S Lite boards. With compatible outputs, ZEN Next-Gen supports PCM through 32-bit/768kHz, DSD256 over DoP and native DSD512. Innuos Sense unifies local files, NAS libraries, major streaming services, radio and podcasts, while optional operating modes support Roon, HQPlayer NAA and AssetUPnP.

Command Performance AV can specify the storage size and output board around the DAC, library and backup plan. ZEN Next-Gen is also designed with a path toward ZENith Next-Gen performance, which is useful when the source must grow without discarding the entire platform.