Hifi Rose RW800 Streamer

Rose RW800, network streaming module with two operating modes

Adding network streaming to an existing hi-fi system often necessitates replacing an entire component. Rose approaches this problem from a different angle, with a small enclosure that connects to one of its streamers via USB-C or works independently with an amplifier or powered speakers. Depending on the connection chosen, the RW800 switches its function: on the one hand, it acts as an expansion module, on the other, as a fully-fledged network player.

Two operating modes in a single housing

The RW800 doesn't perform the same function depending on what it's connected to. When connected to a Rose streamer via USB-C, it acts as a network expansion module: Rose calls this mode Expansion Mode or CH. When connected to another device via RCA or optical cable, it becomes a network player that can function independently of any Rose product: this is Standalone Mode or SA. Switching between the two modes depends solely on the cabling type, without any special settings.

As an extension of a Rose streamer

In Expansion mode, everything runs through a single USB-C cable. The RW800 draws its power directly from the Rose streamer it's connected to, without a power adapter or separate configuration. Playback data, album art, and track title are displayed identically on the host device's screen, and the digital audio signal is transmitted to the streamer's integrated converter at 384 kHz/32-bit without recompression.

The connection works both wired and wirelessly. The RW800 automatically detects the host and maintains a stable synchronization with it, a feature Rose calls Host Sync. Specifically, an owner of an RS151 or RS520 can add current streaming services to their system without replacing the streamer or dismantling their existing setup.

As a standalone network player

In standalone mode, the RW800 functions entirely without a Rose device. It connects via RCA to an integrated amplifier, via optical to a television or external DAC, and is powered by a separate 5V/1.5A USB-C power adapter. Control is managed through the Rose Air app.

Three use cases present themselves. Compared to an older analog amplifier, the RW800 offers the digital input and streaming capabilities it lacked. Connected to active speakers, it acts solely as a DAC and network player. When used with a high-quality DAC, it simply passes the digital data stream on as a transport. In this mode, its own ES9280 DAC comes into play, while the expansion mode relies on the host's DAC. There's no obligation to stick with Rose, but the brand recommends combining it with their RD160 DAC and their RA180 or RA280 amplifiers.

Electronics that separate the signal paths

The internal design separates two worlds that tend to interfere with each other: on the one hand, the processing of network data, and on the other, the conversion of the audio signal, each on its own dedicated chip. The goal is to limit mutual interference and achieve a cleaner sound.

The LS10 module serves as the network's central hub, integrating dual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.2, and Ethernet. Digital conversion is handled by the ES9280 DAC, which boasts a signal-to-noise ratio of 119 dB and a total harmonic distortion (THD+N) of 0.0008%. The SRC4382 processor handles signals up to 192 kHz / 24-bit without any added latency.

Supported resolutions and formats

The values depend on the output used. Via USB, the RW800 transmits PCM losslessly up to 384 kHz / 32-bit. The optical input and output are limited to 192 kHz / 24-bit, one step below, which still significantly exceeds CD resolution. The analog RCA output delivers a maximum of 2 Vrms with a specified THD+N of less than -102 dB, or 0.0008%.

When playing local files, the RW800 supports PCM up to 384 kHz / 32-bit and DSD up to DSD128 (5.6 MHz). Format compatibility is broad: FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF, APE, MP3, AAC, Opus, and OGG Vorbis are among the most important.

Streaming, platform by platform

The RW800 is Roon Ready and supports up to 384 kHz/32-bit audio via RAAT transport. Tidal Connect and Qobuz Connect support up to 192 kHz/24-bit, while Google Cast supports up to 96 kHz/24-bit. AirPlay 2 delivers lossless audio at 48 kHz/24-bit from an iOS device or Mac, enabling multi-room playback. Spotify Connect operates at 44.1 kHz/24-bit, also lossless. Bluetooth 5.2 (A2DP 1.4, AVRCP 1.6.2) completes the package for sources without a network connection, supporting only receiving audio.

Connection to the network, with or without cable

The network connection supports both wired and wireless use. The Ethernet port is a 10/100 BASE-T connection, to which Rose recommends using at least a shielded Category 6 cable. Once an Ethernet cable is plugged in, it takes priority over Wi-Fi. The data rate remains at 100 Mbps, sufficient for audio, even at high resolution.

Depending on the installation, four configurations are available. The RW800 can connect via Wi-Fi and use the Rose host's internet sharing, combine Wi-Fi on the RW800 side with Ethernet on the host side, connect both via Ethernet for maximum stability, or act as a wired bridge. It's up to each user to choose the configuration that best suits their available space and the quality of their wireless coverage.

Control via the Rose Air app

Everything is configured via the Rose Air app, available for both Android and iOS. It automatically detects the RW800 and sets up Wi-Fi via Bluetooth, eliminating the need for guesswork. Playback, pause, track search, and shuffle are all controlled through the same interface, as are OTA firmware updates, settings, and factory resets.

A Bluetooth remote control is available to control the RW800 without a phone, but it is sold separately and is not included in the box.