Audio T Verdict
The Leema Acoustics Stream IV brings together two digital sources that many music lovers still use every day: a high-quality CD player and a flexible network streamer.
Its StreamUnlimited disc mechanism, ESS 9018 Sabre DAC and linear power supply provide a strong foundation for refined CD playback, while the integrated streaming platform handles high-resolution PCM music up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Wi-Fi, Ethernet, USB media playback and analogue or digital outputs make it easy to introduce into an established system. It can operate as a complete digital source or feed an external DAC if the system develops later.
For anyone with a large CD collection who also wants access to network music and streaming services without adding another box, the Stream IV is a particularly sensible and capable solution.
Leema Acoustics Stream IV Streaming CD Player
The Leema Acoustics Stream IV combines a dedicated CD player, high-resolution network streamer and digital-to-analogue converter within one full-width component.
Designed and made in Wales, it is intended for listeners who want to retain the physical experience of CD while gaining access to network music libraries, USB storage, internet radio and compatible subscription streaming services.
Its principal features include:
- StreamUnlimited CD transport mechanism
- ESS 9018 Sabre digital-to-analogue converter
- PCM playback up to 24-bit/192kHz
- UPnP and DLNA network playback
- Wired Ethernet connectivity
- Wireless network connectivity with twin aerials
- WPS network setup support
- Rear USB-A media connection
- Two stereo RCA analogue outputs
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- Optical S/PDIF digital output
- Noratel linear power supply
- Front-panel multifunction controls
- Supplied remote control
- Black or silver finish
CD and Streaming in One Component
The Stream IV is designed around the idea that physical and streamed music can sit comfortably within the same system.
Rather than requiring separate CD and network players, it combines both sources behind a single user interface and analogue output stage.
This can provide several practical advantages:
- Fewer components on the equipment rack
- One shared digital-to-analogue converter
- One pair of analogue interconnects to the amplifier
- Consistent sound quality across CD and streaming
- Simpler remote control
- Reduced mains and cabling requirements
- A clear upgrade path through the digital outputs
The Stream IV remains useful even if listening habits change, as its CD, streaming and digital-output functions can be used independently.
StreamUnlimited CD Mechanism
CD playback is handled by a StreamUnlimited transport mechanism selected for dedicated audio use.
The transport reads the disc and supplies digital audio data to the Stream IV’s internal conversion and output stages.
A dedicated CD mechanism offers advantages over relying on a computer drive or general-purpose disc transport, including:
- Purpose-designed disc handling
- Direct front-panel operation
- Conventional remote control
- A stable mechanical platform
- Integration with the player’s power supply and digital circuitry
- Simple access to an existing CD collection
Keep Listening to Your CD Collection
The arrival of music streaming does not make a carefully collected CD library redundant.
CDs can still offer:
- Permanent access without an ongoing subscription
- Masterings that may differ from streaming versions
- Albums unavailable through current online services
- Booklets, artwork and physical packaging
- Predictable playback without relying on an internet connection
- A straightforward way to enjoy complete albums
The Stream IV allows a physical collection to remain central to the system while adding the convenience and variety of network playback.
ESS 9018 Sabre DAC
Digital-to-analogue conversion is performed by an ESS 9018 Sabre DAC.
The DAC converts digital audio from the CD mechanism and streaming platform into the analogue signal supplied through the rear RCA outputs.
Its role includes:
- Converting PCM data into analogue audio
- Maintaining accurate left and right channel information
- Reducing unwanted digital noise and distortion
- Preserving low-level musical information
- Providing a suitable output for an integrated amplifier or pre-amplifier
The DAC, analogue output stage, power supply and digital sources are engineered to work together as one complete player.
High-Resolution PCM Playback
The Stream IV supports compatible PCM music files at resolutions up to 24-bit/192kHz through its network and media playback system.
Higher-resolution files can provide greater numerical precision than the 16-bit/44.1kHz format used by CD, although the quality of the original recording and mastering remains more important than the file specification alone.
Compatible music may be played from:
- A UPnP or DLNA music server
- A network-attached storage drive
- A compatible computer running server software
- A USB flash drive
- Supported online music services
File Compatibility Can Vary
Maximum playback resolution and format support can depend on the file, server software, control application, network and service being used.
Check any specialist file format or library requirement with Audio T before purchase.
Network Music Streaming
The Stream IV can discover and play music stored on compatible devices connected to the same home network.
This may include:
- Network-attached storage devices
- Computers running UPnP server software
- Dedicated music servers
- Compatible media libraries
- Other DLNA or UPnP storage devices
The music remains stored on the server, while the Stream IV acts as the network player and digital source for the hi-fi system.
UPnP and DLNA Compatibility
UPnP and DLNA allow compatible devices and applications to communicate across the local network.
A typical system consists of:
- A music server or storage device
- The Stream IV as the playback device
- A phone or tablet running a compatible control application
- A wired or wireless home network
The controlling phone or tablet selects the music, but the Stream IV receives the audio data through the network rather than using the mobile device as a Bluetooth audio source.
mconnect Control Application
Streaming playback is controlled through the mconnect control point application for compatible iOS and Android devices.
The application can be used to:
- Select the Stream IV as the playback device
- Browse compatible network music libraries
- Choose albums, artists and tracks
- Create a playback queue
- Access compatible streaming services
- Select internet radio where available
- Control playback from a phone or tablet
The appearance, features and service support within the application can change as the app and third-party platforms are updated.
Subscription Streaming Services
Current Audio T information lists access to services including Tidal, Qobuz and Spotify through the Stream IV’s compatible control and streaming platform.
A separate account or paid subscription may be required, and the available catalogue, sound quality and application support are controlled by the service provider.
Streaming-service compatibility can change over the lifetime of any network product, so customers relying on a particular platform should confirm current support before purchase.
Internet Radio
The Stream IV can provide access to compatible internet radio services through its network platform and control application.
Internet radio can offer:
- UK and international radio stations
- Music organised by genre
- Specialist speech and cultural programming
- Stations unavailable through conventional FM or DAB reception
Station availability, audio quality and directory support are controlled by the broadcaster and internet-radio provider and may change without notice.
Rear USB-A Media Connection
A rear USB-A connection allows compatible music files to be played from a suitable USB storage device.
This provides a useful option when:
- A network music server is not available
- A temporary collection needs to be connected
- Music is being transferred between systems
- A small library can be stored on one flash drive
- Network access is temporarily unavailable
The USB connection is intended for compatible storage media rather than direct USB audio playback from a computer.
The USB-A Socket Is Not a Computer DAC Input
The Stream IV does not provide a USB-B audio input for direct connection to a computer.
Computer-based music should normally be shared through a compatible network server or transferred to supported USB storage.
Ethernet Network Connection
A wired Ethernet socket provides a direct connection to a network router, 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 Wi-Fi coverage
- A permanent wired network is already installed
A wired connection is also useful during initial setup or when diagnosing a network problem.
Wireless Network Connectivity
The Stream IV can also connect to a compatible wireless home network.
Twin rear aerials help provide reliable wireless communication while allowing the player to remain positioned with the rest of the hi-fi equipment.
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
WPS Network Setup
Wi-Fi Protected Setup can simplify connection to a compatible router.
The process normally involves activating WPS on the router and then using the corresponding rear control on the Stream IV within the permitted time.
Not every modern network enables WPS, and some users may prefer a wired initial setup for greater control over network configuration.
Two Stereo RCA Analogue Outputs
The Stream IV provides two stereo pairs of unbalanced RCA analogue outputs.
These can be used to connect the player to compatible equipment such as:
- An integrated amplifier
- A stereo pre-amplifier
- An analogue recording device
- A second system or signal path
- Compatible active loudspeakers with suitable volume control
The partnering amplifier or pre-amplifier normally controls the listening volume.
Use a Suitable Volume-Controlled System
The Stream IV is primarily a source component rather than a conventional analogue pre-amplifier.
Do not connect it directly to a power amplifier or fixed-level active speaker input unless a suitable volume-control arrangement has been confirmed.
Coaxial Digital Output
A coaxial S/PDIF output allows the Stream IV to feed a compatible external digital-to-analogue converter, digital amplifier or recording device.
This can be useful when:
- An existing external DAC is preferred
- The system includes a digital pre-amplifier
- A future DAC upgrade is planned
- The Stream IV is being used principally as a CD transport and network source
A correctly specified 75-ohm digital coaxial cable is recommended rather than a conventional analogue interconnect.
Optical Digital Output
A Toslink optical output provides an alternative digital connection.
Optical transmission electrically isolates the Stream IV from the receiving component, which can be useful where electrical noise or ground interaction is a concern.
Maximum supported resolution will depend on the receiving DAC, connected source and optical cable.
Using an External DAC
The internal ESS DAC allows the Stream IV to be used as a complete source straight from the box, but its digital outputs provide an alternative upgrade path.
An external DAC may be considered when:
- The existing system already includes a preferred converter
- A particular tonal presentation is required
- Balanced analogue outputs are needed from the DAC
- The digital conversion stage will be upgraded separately
- Several digital sources need to share one converter
The internal and external conversion options should be compared by demonstration rather than assuming that a separate DAC will automatically produce a better result.
Noratel Linear Power Supply
The Stream IV uses a Noratel linear power supply rather than relying on a small external switch-mode adapter.
The power supply supports the transport, network module, digital circuitry, DAC and analogue output stages.
A carefully designed internal supply can help provide:
- Stable operating voltages
- Low electrical noise
- Consistent performance across the player’s different sections
- A self-contained installation
- No external power supply box
Front-Panel Multifunction Controls
The uncluttered front panel uses two large rotary controls that can also be pressed as buttons.
Depending on the operating mode, they provide access to functions including:
- Power and standby
- Opening and closing the CD drawer
- Play and pause
- Track selection
- Forward and reverse scanning
The arrangement keeps the fascia visually simple while retaining direct access to the main CD functions.
Front Display
A clear front-panel display provides operating and playback information.
The information shown depends on the selected source and may include:
- Track number
- Playback status
- Elapsed time
- Operating mode
- Network or source information
Detailed browsing of a network music library is handled through the control application rather than through the front display alone.
Supplied Remote Control
A remote control is supplied for normal operation from the listening position.
It provides convenient access to the principal CD and playback functions without requiring the front-panel controls to be used.
Network library browsing and streaming-service selection are handled through the compatible mobile application.
Designed and Made in Wales
Leema Acoustics was founded by former BBC engineers Lee Taylor and Mallory Nicholls and is based in Welshpool.
The Stream IV is assembled in Wales as part of Leema’s full-width Stellar range.
Leema’s approach brings product design and manufacturing experience together under one roof, allowing the company to develop the transport, digital electronics, power supply and analogue output stage as a complete product.
Black and Silver Finishes
Audio T currently lists the Stream IV in:
Both versions use the same internal specification and full-width chassis.
Finish availability can vary according to current UK production and stock.
System Matching
The Stream IV can be used with a wide variety of integrated amplifiers and pre-amplifiers.
Potential partners include:
The final result will depend on the complete system, including amplification, speakers, room and cabling.
Analogue Interconnect Selection
A stereo RCA interconnect is required when using either pair of analogue outputs.
Interconnect selection should consider:
- The distance between the Stream IV and amplifier
- Connector quality
- Cable flexibility
- Available space behind the equipment rack
- The overall quality and balance of the system
Keep analogue interconnects away from tightly bundled mains cables and power adapters where practical.
Network Requirements
Network playback requires a compatible router and a reliable connection between the Stream IV, 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 connect to the same network
- The music server is visible to other network devices
- Any required subscription accounts are active
- The router firewall permits local device communication
- An Ethernet cable is available if wired setup is preferred
Stream IV or Separate CD and Streaming Players?
Choose the Stream IV When
- CD and streaming are both important
- Rack space is limited
- One shared analogue output stage is preferred
- A simple, coordinated digital source is required
- Both analogue and digital outputs are useful
- A full-width Welsh-made component appeals
Choose Separate Players When
- CD and streaming will be upgraded independently
- Different DACs are wanted for each source
- A dedicated streaming ecosystem is required
- Internal music storage or CD ripping is important
- A specialist CD transport is already owned
- Additional streaming connections are required
Stream IV or Leema Elements CD and Streamer?
Choose the Stream IV When
- One full-width component is preferred
- CD and streaming should share one chassis
- The ESS 9018 Sabre DAC is required
- Two stereo RCA output pairs are useful
- A simpler equipment rack is preferred
- The Stellar-series design suits the system
Choose the Elements Separates When
- Compact half-width components are preferred
- CD and streaming may be purchased separately
- Balanced analogue outputs are required
- Each source may be upgraded independently
- The Elements amplifier is already being used
- Greater placement flexibility is important
Explore the Leema Elements CD Player and Leema Elements Streamer for separate compact source components.
What the Stream IV Does Not Include
The Stream IV is a dedicated digital source rather than a complete all-in-one music system.
It does not include:
- A power amplifier
- Passive speaker outputs
- A phono stage
- An HDMI connection
- A USB-B computer-audio input
- Internal music storage
- CD ripping to an internal drive
- A headphone output
- Bluetooth audio reception
Suitable amplification, speakers, interconnects and network equipment are required separately.
Placement and Ventilation
Install the Stream IV on a rigid, level equipment shelf with enough room for its rear connections and Wi-Fi aerials.
Avoid positioning it:
- Directly above a hot-running power amplifier
- Inside a sealed cupboard without ventilation
- Where the CD drawer is obstructed
- Where the rear aerials are pressed against a wall
- Beside equipment likely to cause strong wireless interference
- Where liquids can reach the player
The player should remain accessible for disc loading, USB media, network connections and future system changes.
Care and Cleaning
Switch the Stream IV off 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 insert cleaning discs, liquids or objects into the transport unless specifically approved by Leema Acoustics.
Key Features
- Combined CD player and network streamer
- Part of Leema Acoustics’ Stellar range
- Designed and made in Wales
- StreamUnlimited CD transport mechanism
- ESS 9018 Sabre DAC
- PCM playback up to 24-bit/192kHz
- UPnP network playback
- DLNA compatibility
- Compatible network-server playback
- Compatible NAS drive playback
- USB flash-drive playback
- Rear USB-A connection
- Ethernet network connection
- Wireless network connectivity
- Twin Wi-Fi aerials
- WPS network setup support
- mconnect control application
- Compatible with iOS control devices
- Compatible with Android control devices
- Tidal access through compatible software
- Qobuz access through compatible software
- Spotify access through compatible software
- Internet radio support
- Two stereo RCA analogue output pairs
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- Optical S/PDIF digital output
- External DAC compatibility
- Noratel linear power supply
- Two front-panel multifunction rotary controls
- Front information display
- Supplied remote control
- Full-width chassis
- Black finish
- Silver finish
- 435mm width
- 95mm height
- 330mm depth
- 5.5kg weight
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Leema Acoustics Stream IV?
It is a combined CD player, network streamer and digital-to-analogue converter.
Is the Stream IV sold with an amplifier?
No. It is a source component and requires a suitable integrated amplifier, pre-amplifier or compatible active speaker system.
Which DAC does it use?
An ESS 9018 Sabre digital-to-analogue converter.
Which CD mechanism does it use?
A StreamUnlimited CD transport mechanism.
What is the maximum supported resolution?
The streaming platform supports compatible PCM music files up to 24-bit/192kHz.
Does it play DSD files?
Current published information is inconsistent regarding DSD support. Customers requiring DSD playback should confirm their exact file and software requirements with Audio T before purchase.
Can it play music from a NAS drive?
Yes. It can access compatible UPnP or DLNA music servers and network-attached storage libraries.
Can it play music from a USB drive?
Yes. A rear USB-A connection is provided for compatible storage devices.
Can I connect a computer directly by USB?
No. The Stream IV does not provide a USB-B computer-audio input. Computer music can instead be shared through a compatible network server.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Wireless network connectivity and twin rear aerials are provided.
Does it have Ethernet?
Yes. A wired Ethernet network connection is fitted.
Does it support WPS?
Yes, for use with compatible routers that have Wi-Fi Protected Setup enabled.
Which app controls streaming?
The Stream IV uses the compatible mconnect control point application for iOS and Android devices.
Does it support Tidal and Qobuz?
Current Audio T information lists Tidal and Qobuz access through the compatible streaming application. Service support and subscriptions should be checked before purchase.
Does it support Spotify?
Current Audio T information lists Spotify access through the Stream IV’s compatible streaming platform. This should not be assumed to mean native Spotify Connect unless confirmed by the current application.
Does it provide internet radio?
Yes, through compatible network software and radio directories. Individual station availability can change.
Does it have Bluetooth?
No Bluetooth audio receiver is included in the published Stream IV specification.
How many analogue outputs are provided?
Two stereo pairs of RCA analogue outputs.
Does it have balanced XLR outputs?
No. The Stream IV uses unbalanced RCA analogue outputs.
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 the coaxial or optical output to a compatible external DAC.
Can it be connected directly to a power amplifier?
Not normally. The Stream IV is primarily a fixed-level source and should be used with a suitable volume-controlled amplifier or pre-amplifier.
Does it include a headphone output?
No headphone socket is included in the published specification.
Can it rip CDs?
No internal storage or integrated CD-ripping function is specified.
Does it store music internally?
No. Music is played from CD, USB storage, a network server or compatible online services.
Is a remote control included?
Yes. A remote control is supplied for the main player functions.
Can CD playback be controlled from the front panel?
Yes. Two multifunction rotary controls provide access to the principal CD transport functions.
Which finishes are available?
Audio T currently lists black and silver versions, subject to availability.
What are the dimensions?
Approximately 435 x 95 x 330mm (W x H x D).
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 5.5kg.
Where is the Stream IV 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 Acoustics Stream IV demonstrations
- CD and streaming playback comparisons
- Network and music-server compatibility checks
- Wi-Fi and Ethernet setup guidance
- mconnect application assistance
- Streaming-service compatibility advice
- NAS drive and UPnP server guidance
- USB media compatibility checks
- Internal and external DAC comparisons
- Coaxial and optical digital-output setup
- Amplifier and system-matching advice
- Comparisons with separate CD and streaming players
- Analogue and digital cable selection
- Equipment-rack and ventilation guidance
- 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, streaming services, amplification, external DACs and system matching for the Leema Acoustics Stream IV.