Audio T Verdict
The Leema Acoustics Elements Streamer is a compact but serious network music player, designed for listeners who want high-quality streaming without allowing another full-width component to dominate the equipment rack.
Its ESS ES9018 Sabre DAC delivers the analogue signal through balanced XLR or conventional RCA outputs, while optical and coaxial digital outputs allow it to work purely as a network transport with an external DAC.
Ethernet, Wi-Fi, UPnP, DLNA and rear USB media playback provide plenty of ways to access a music collection. Control is handled entirely through a compatible mobile app, so a reliable home network and suitable phone or tablet are essential.
Matched with the Elements Integrated Amplifier, it creates a particularly neat compact system, but its balanced and unbalanced outputs also make it easy to introduce into a wide range of established hi-fi systems.
Leema Acoustics Elements Network Music Streamer and DAC
The Leema Acoustics Elements Streamer is a compact network music player and digital-to-analogue converter designed and made in Wales.
It brings together:
- UPnP and DLNA network music playback
- Compatible high-resolution files up to 24-bit/192kHz
- Wired Ethernet networking
- Wireless network connectivity
- Twin rear Wi-Fi aerials
- Rear USB-A media playback
- An ESS ES9018 Sabre DAC
- Balanced XLR analogue outputs
- Unbalanced RCA analogue outputs
- Optical digital output
- Coaxial digital output
- App-based music selection and control
- Selected subscription streaming services
- Internet radio through compatible services
The Elements Streamer can operate as a complete network source using its internal DAC, or as a digital streaming transport feeding an external DAC or suitably equipped amplifier.
Compact Elements-Series Design
At 220mm wide, the Elements Streamer occupies around half the shelf width of a conventional hi-fi component.
Its compact proportions make it particularly useful where:
- Equipment-rack space is limited
- A discreet system is preferred
- It will be partnered with other Elements components
- A bedroom, office or second-room system is being assembled
- Full-size connectivity is required from a smaller enclosure
The matching Elements components can be placed side by side or on separate shelves, depending on the available ventilation and equipment support.
Streaming Technology from the Leema Quasar
The Elements Streamer uses network technology derived from the streaming platform developed for Leema’s Quasar streaming amplifier.
It can access music from compatible devices connected to the same home network, including:
- Network-attached storage drives
- Dedicated music servers
- Computers running compatible server software
- UPnP and DLNA media libraries
- Supported online music services
- Internet radio directories
The Streamer receives and processes the music data directly through the network. The controlling phone or tablet is used to browse and select music rather than remaining within the audio signal path.
UPnP and DLNA Network Playback
UPnP and DLNA allow compatible music-storage devices, servers and control applications to communicate across a home network.
A typical network system consists of:
- A router or network switch
- The Elements Streamer as the playback device
- A NAS drive, computer or music server
- A compatible phone or tablet running the control app
All devices must normally be connected to the same local network and permitted to communicate with one another.
High-Resolution Music Playback
The Elements Streamer supports compatible high-resolution PCM music files at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Music can be played from:
- A compatible UPnP server
- A network-attached storage drive
- A computer-based music library
- A dedicated music server
- A rear-connected USB storage device
- Supported online music services
Maximum playback quality will depend on the original recording, file format, network server, control application and selected streaming service.
DSD File Compatibility
Contemporary product information and independent testing listed support for compatible DSD files up to DSD128.
Customers with an established DSD library should confirm compatibility with their exact file format, server software, control app and current streamer firmware before purchase.
Check Specialist File Requirements
Not every high-resolution file or server configuration is guaranteed to operate identically.
Confirm any essential DSD, gapless playback, metadata or library-management requirement with Audio T before purchase.
ESS ES9018 Sabre DAC
Digital-to-analogue conversion is handled by an ESS ES9018 Sabre DAC.
The DAC converts music received from the network or USB storage into an analogue signal for the rear XLR and RCA outputs.
The ES9018 incorporates ESS technologies designed to support:
- Low distortion
- Wide dynamic range
- Accurate low-level detail
- Controlled digital timing
- Stable stereo imaging
- Reduced sensitivity to incoming clock jitter
The DAC, analogue output stage, network module and internal power supplies are designed to operate together as one complete source component.
Balanced XLR Analogue Outputs
A balanced stereo analogue output is provided through separate left and right XLR sockets.
Balanced connections can be useful where:
- The partnering amplifier provides genuine balanced inputs
- Longer analogue interconnects are required
- Signal cables must pass close to mains cables
- Resistance to common electrical interference is important
- The rest of the system already uses balanced connections
The XLR outputs make the Elements Streamer a natural partner for the matching Elements Integrated Amplifier and other suitably equipped amplifiers.
Unbalanced RCA Analogue Outputs
A conventional stereo pair of RCA outputs allows the Streamer to connect to almost any integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier with a spare line-level input.
The amplifier input may be labelled:
- Streamer
- Auxiliary
- Line
- CD
- Tuner
Do not connect the Elements Streamer to a moving-magnet or moving-coil phono input.
Use a Suitable Volume-Controlled System
The Elements Streamer is a source component rather than a conventional analogue pre-amplifier.
Connect it to an integrated amplifier, pre-amplifier or active speaker system with safe and suitable volume control.
Coaxial Digital Output
A coaxial S/PDIF output allows the Elements Streamer to feed a compatible external DAC, digital pre-amplifier or digital integrated amplifier.
This can be useful when:
- The system already includes a preferred external DAC
- Digital conversion will be upgraded separately
- Several digital sources share one converter
- A digital amplifier will handle conversion
- The Streamer is required primarily as a network transport
A correctly specified 75-ohm digital coaxial cable is recommended.
Optical Digital Output
A Toslink optical output provides an alternative digital connection.
Optical transmission electrically isolates the Streamer from the receiving component, which can be useful where electrical noise or ground interaction is a concern.
The maximum supported resolution will also depend on the receiving DAC and optical cable.
Using an External DAC
The internal ESS DAC allows the Elements Streamer to function as a complete source immediately, but the two digital outputs provide a straightforward upgrade route.
An external DAC may be considered where:
- A preferred converter is already installed
- Several digital sources must share one DAC
- A different analogue output stage is required
- The digital section will be upgraded independently
- A DAC with additional inputs or pre-amplifier functions is needed
The internal and external DAC options should be compared through demonstration rather than assuming that a separate converter will automatically give a better result.
No External Digital Inputs
The optical and coaxial sockets are outputs rather than inputs.
The Elements Streamer cannot therefore be used as a DAC for:
- A television
- A CD transport
- A games console
- A set-top box
- Another network transport
A separate DAC or suitably equipped amplifier is required for additional external digital sources.
Rear USB-A Media Playback
A rear USB-A connection allows compatible music stored on a USB drive to be played through the Streamer.
This provides a useful option when:
- A NAS drive is not available
- A temporary music collection needs to be connected
- Music is being transferred between systems
- A smaller library can be kept on one USB drive
- The local network is temporarily unavailable
Music on the connected drive is browsed and selected through the compatible control application.
The USB-A Port Is Not a Computer DAC Input
The rear USB connection is intended for compatible media-storage devices.
The Elements Streamer does not provide a USB-B input for direct computer-audio playback.
Ethernet Network Connection
A wired Ethernet socket provides a direct connection to a router, network switch or compatible music server.
Ethernet may be preferable where:
- The equipment rack is close to the router
- The wireless signal is weak
- The home network is heavily congested
- High-resolution playback must be as consistent as possible
- Building construction limits wireless coverage
- A permanent wired network is already available
A wired connection can also be useful during initial setup or when diagnosing a network problem.
Wireless Network Connectivity
The Elements Streamer can connect to a compatible wireless network through its twin rear Wi-Fi aerials.
Wireless performance will depend on:
- Distance from the router
- Wall and floor construction
- Interference from neighbouring networks
- The position of the rear aerials
- Other wireless equipment
- The quality and configuration of the router
Keep both aerials attached and allow clear space behind the Streamer where practical.
WPS Network Setup
Wi-Fi Protected Setup can simplify connection to a compatible wireless router.
The process normally involves activating WPS on the router and then using the corresponding control on the Elements Streamer within the permitted period.
Not every current router enables WPS, so Ethernet setup may be preferable where greater control over the network connection is required.
App-Based Control
The Elements Streamer does not use a conventional front-panel display or physical playback controls.
Music browsing and playback are controlled through compatible mconnect software on a phone or tablet.
The app is used to:
- Select the Elements Streamer as the playback device
- Browse a network music library
- Choose albums, artists and tracks
- Create and manage a playback queue
- Browse USB media
- Access supported subscription services
- Select compatible internet radio stations
- Control play, pause and track selection
A Phone or Tablet Is Essential
The clean front panel has no display or conventional playback buttons.
A compatible mobile device, control application and reliable local network are required for normal operation.
Streaming Services
The Elements streaming platform has supported services including:
- Tidal
- Qobuz
- Deezer
- Spotify Connect
- Internet radio
A separate account or paid subscription may be required.
Service support, login methods, available catalogues and playback quality are controlled partly by the third-party service and control software, so availability can change during the lifetime of a network product.
BBC Internet Radio Is Not Currently Supported
Audio T has been advised that the Elements Streamer no longer supports BBC internet radio stations.
Customers who rely on a particular radio station or streaming service should confirm current availability before purchase.
No AirPlay or Bluetooth
AirPlay and Bluetooth audio reception are not included in the published Elements Streamer specification.
Music is normally accessed through:
- UPnP or DLNA network playback
- Supported integrated streaming services
- Spotify Connect
- Rear USB media storage
- Compatible internet radio services
Customers who require AirPlay, Bluetooth or Chromecast should consider whether an additional source or a different streamer would better suit the system.
Matching Elements Integrated Amplifier
The Leema Acoustics Elements Integrated Amplifier is the natural partner for the Streamer.
The two components provide:
- Matching half-width dimensions
- Coordinated black or silver finishes
- Balanced XLR connectivity
- A compact network-based music system
- Extensive analogue and digital connectivity through the amplifier
- Power amplification for passive loudspeakers
The balanced XLR connection uses the Streamer’s internal ESS DAC, while its digital output can be connected to the amplifier’s DAC for comparison.
Adding the Elements CD Player
The Leema Acoustics Elements CD Player adds dedicated physical-disc playback within the same compact format.
Using separate CD and streaming sources allows:
- Each source to be upgraded independently
- CD and streaming to retain dedicated internal circuitry
- Balanced analogue connections from both players
- A coordinated visual appearance
- The system to be expanded gradually
Elements Streamer or Stream IV?
Choose the Elements Streamer When
- A dedicated network player is required
- A compact half-width component is preferred
- Balanced XLR outputs are important
- CD playback is handled separately
- The Elements Integrated Amplifier is being used
- A modular upgrade path is preferred
Choose the Stream IV When
- CD and network streaming are both required
- One combined source component is preferred
- A full-width chassis suits the system
- Reducing the number of components is important
- A dedicated StreamUnlimited CD transport is wanted
- Balanced analogue outputs are not essential
The Leema Acoustics Stream IV combines network streaming and CD playback within one full-width source component.
Internal DAC or Digital Transport?
Use the Internal DAC When
- A complete network player is required
- The ESS ES9018 suits the system
- Balanced XLR outputs are useful
- A simple analogue connection is preferred
- No external DAC is currently owned
- The system should use fewer components
Use the Digital Output When
- An external DAC is already installed
- A digital amplifier will perform conversion
- The DAC will be upgraded independently
- Several digital sources share one converter
- A different analogue output stage is preferred
- The player is required principally as a transport
Network Requirements
Normal operation requires a compatible router and a reliable network connection between the Streamer, control device and music server or internet service.
Before installation, check that:
- The router provides coverage at the equipment rack
- The phone or tablet can join the same network
- The music server is visible to other network devices
- Any required subscription accounts are active
- The router permits communication between local devices
- An Ethernet cable is available if wired setup is preferred
Placement and Ventilation
Install the Elements Streamer on a rigid, level equipment shelf with enough room for the rear connections and Wi-Fi aerials.
Avoid positioning it:
- Directly above a hot-running power amplifier
- Inside a sealed cupboard without ventilation
- Where the rear aerials are pressed against a wall
- Beside equipment likely to cause strong wireless interference
- Where cables place strain on the rear sockets
- Where liquids can reach the player
Leema components should not normally be stacked directly on top of one another without appropriate ventilation and support.
Analogue and Digital Cable Selection
Choose balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA or a digital connection according to the partnering equipment and preferred signal path.
Consider:
- The available amplifier or DAC inputs
- The required cable length
- Connector clearance behind the equipment
- Proximity to mains cables
- Whether the internal or external DAC will be used
- The overall quality and balance of the system
There is normally no need to connect the analogue and digital outputs simultaneously unless a specific comparison or second signal path is required.
Care and Cleaning
Switch the Streamer off and disconnect it from the mains before cleaning its exterior.
Use a clean, soft and dry or very slightly damp cloth.
Do not use:
- Abrasive cleaning products
- Furniture polish
- Solvents
- Aerosol cleaners
- Excessive water
Do not open the chassis. There are no user-serviceable components inside.
Key Features
- Dedicated network music streamer and DAC
- Designed and made in Wales
- Part of the Leema Elements range
- Compact 220mm-wide chassis
- Streaming platform derived from the Leema Quasar
- UPnP network playback
- DLNA compatibility
- NAS drive playback
- Compatible computer-server playback
- PCM playback up to 24-bit/192kHz
- DSD128 support listed in contemporary product information
- ESS ES9018 Sabre DAC
- ESS Hyperstream architecture
- ESS jitter-reduction technology
- Wired Ethernet connectivity
- Wireless network connectivity
- Twin rear Wi-Fi aerials
- WPS network setup support
- Rear USB-A media connection
- USB storage playback
- mconnect app-based control
- Compatible with iOS devices
- Compatible with Android devices
- Tidal support through compatible software
- Qobuz support through compatible software
- Deezer support through compatible software
- Spotify Connect support
- Internet radio support through compatible services
- Balanced stereo XLR outputs
- Unbalanced stereo RCA outputs
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- Optical S/PDIF digital output
- External DAC compatibility
- No external digital inputs
- No USB-B computer input
- No Bluetooth receiver
- No AirPlay support
- No front-panel display
- No conventional front-panel playback controls
- Black finish
- Silver finish
- 220mm width
- 88mm height
- 340mm depth
- 2.5kg weight
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leema Acoustics Elements Streamer?
It is a compact network music player and DAC with Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB media playback and analogue or digital outputs.
Does it include an amplifier?
No. It requires a suitable integrated amplifier, pre-amplifier or volume-controlled active speaker system.
Which DAC does it use?
An ESS ES9018 Sabre digital-to-analogue converter.
What is the maximum PCM resolution?
Compatible network and USB media files can be played at up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Does it play DSD?
Contemporary product information listed DSD128 capability. Exact file, server and current app compatibility should be confirmed where DSD playback is essential.
Can it play music from a NAS drive?
Yes. It supports compatible UPnP and DLNA network music libraries.
Can it play music from a USB drive?
Yes. A rear USB-A connection is provided for compatible media-storage devices.
Can a computer be connected directly by USB?
No. The rear USB-A port is intended for storage media rather than direct USB computer audio.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Wireless connectivity and twin rear aerials are provided.
Does it have Ethernet?
Yes. A wired network socket is fitted.
Does it support WPS?
Yes, for connection to compatible routers with Wi-Fi Protected Setup enabled.
Which app controls it?
Music browsing and playback are handled through compatible mconnect software on an iOS or Android device.
Does it have a front display?
No. Normal operation relies on the control application.
Does it have front-panel playback buttons?
No conventional playback controls are fitted to the front panel.
Does it support Tidal and Qobuz?
Both have been supported through the compatible streaming platform. Current login and service availability should be confirmed before purchase.
Does it support Spotify Connect?
Spotify Connect is included in the published streaming-service support.
Does it support Deezer?
Deezer has been supported through the compatible streaming platform.
Does it provide internet radio?
Yes, through compatible radio directories, although individual station availability can change.
Can it play BBC internet radio stations?
Audio T has been advised that BBC internet radio stations are no longer supported by the Elements Streamer.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No Bluetooth receiver is included in the published specification.
Does it support Apple AirPlay?
No AirPlay support is included in the published specification.
Does it support Chromecast?
No Chromecast support is included in the published specification.
Does it have balanced outputs?
Yes. Separate left and right XLR sockets provide a balanced stereo analogue output.
Does it also have RCA outputs?
Yes. A conventional unbalanced stereo RCA output is provided.
Does it have digital outputs?
Yes. One coaxial S/PDIF output and one optical S/PDIF output are provided.
Can it be used with an external DAC?
Yes. Connect either digital output to a compatible external DAC or digital amplifier.
Does it have digital inputs?
No. The optical and coaxial sockets are outputs only.
Can it be connected directly to a power amplifier?
Not normally. Use an integrated amplifier, pre-amplifier or another safe volume-control arrangement.
Can it connect directly to active speakers?
Yes, provided the active speaker system includes suitable volume control and compatible analogue inputs.
Does it have a headphone output?
No headphone connection is included in the published specification.
Does it store music internally?
No. Music is accessed from network storage, supported online services or a connected USB drive.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 220 x 88 x 340mm (W x H x D).
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 2.5kg.
Which finishes are available?
Audio T currently lists black and silver versions, subject to availability.
Where is it made?
It is made in Wales by Leema Acoustics.
What warranty is included?
Audio T currently lists a five-year manufacturer warranty, subject to Leema Acoustics’ full terms and proof of purchase.
Related Leema Acoustics Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Leema Elements Streamer demonstrations
- Network and music-server compatibility checks
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet setup guidance
- UPnP and DLNA server assistance
- NAS drive and USB media setup
- mconnect control-app guidance
- Current streaming-service compatibility checks
- High-resolution file and DSD compatibility advice
- Internal and external DAC comparisons
- Balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA connection advice
- Optical and coaxial digital-output setup
- Elements Integrated Amplifier system matching
- Comparisons with the Leema Stream IV
- Analogue and digital cable selection
- Compact equipment-rack planning
- Black and silver finish selection
- Home demonstrations may be available by arrangement
- Part exchange may be available on suitable existing equipment
- Leema manufacturer-warranty guidance
- Ongoing network, system and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a demonstration or discuss networking, music servers, streaming services, amplification and external DACs for the Leema Acoustics Elements Streamer.