Audio T Verdict
The EarMen Staccato is refreshingly single-minded. It is not a streamer with an amplifier, DAC, display and every conceivable socket squeezed into one box. Instead, it concentrates on getting network and locally stored digital music to the DAC you already own.
That distinction is important. There are no analogue outputs inside the Staccato and no internal digital-to-analogue converter. Its rear RCA socket is a coaxial S/PDIF digital output, joined by optical Toslink, so the Staccato must be connected to a suitable external DAC, DAC-equipped amplifier or active speaker system.
Network connectivity is equally purposeful. A 10/100Mbps Ethernet connection provides the main route onto the home network, while Bluetooth allows music to be sent directly from a compatible phone, tablet or computer. There is no conventional Wi-Fi network connection, despite the presence of the rear antenna - that antenna is used for Bluetooth.
A rear USB-A port can play music from compatible USB storage, while network libraries can be accessed through UPnP/DLNA. Streaming support has included Spotify Connect, TIDAL, Qobuz, internet radio and other services through the EarMen streaming platform, although availability of individual third-party services and control applications can change over time.
EarMen quotes file compatibility up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256. It is worth remembering, however, that the Staccato's outputs are conventional optical and coaxial S/PDIF rather than USB audio. The supported format and sample rate reaching the DAC will therefore also depend on the selected output, source material and receiving DAC.
Its compact 150mm-square aluminium chassis is designed to match the EarMen Tradutto DAC and CH-Amp, and the supplied CH-Amp PSU-3 can also provide compatible power to the Staccato when building the complete EarMen desktop stack.
For someone who already has a good DAC and simply wants to add streaming without replacing the conversion stage they have chosen, the Staccato remains an appealingly compact digital transport.
EarMen Staccato Network Music Streamer
The EarMen Staccato is a compact network music streamer and digital transport designed to add streaming, network-library and USB-storage playback to an existing DAC or digital Hi-Fi system.
Rather than incorporating its own DAC, EarMen keeps the Staccato entirely within the digital domain and provides both coaxial S/PDIF and optical Toslink outputs.
Key features include:
- Dedicated network music streamer and digital transport
- No internal DAC
- Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
- Optical Toslink digital output
- 10/100Mbps Ethernet connection
- Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity
- Rear USB 2.0 connection for compatible storage
- UPnP/DLNA network-library playback
- Spotify Connect support
- TIDAL streaming support
- Qobuz access through compatible control software
- Internet radio
- Local network music playback
- Published file compatibility up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM
- Published DSD file compatibility up to DSD256
- Compact aluminium chassis
- Compatible with the EarMen PSU-3 power supply system
- Matching form factor for Tradutto and CH-Amp
External DAC Required
The Staccato does not contain a digital-to-analogue converter.
It therefore cannot connect directly to a conventional analogue amplifier input.
A suitable DAC, DAC-equipped amplifier, active speaker or another product with an optical or coaxial digital input is required.
Streamer and Digital Transport
A network streamer can be built in several different ways.
Some products combine streaming, digital conversion, volume control and even amplification in one chassis. The Staccato takes a more modular approach.
Its job is to:
- Access music from the network
- Receive compatible online music services
- Read compatible music from USB storage
- Receive Bluetooth audio
- Manage playback
- Send the resulting digital signal to an external DAC
This makes it particularly relevant to listeners who are already happy with their DAC and do not want to pay for another conversion stage simply to add streaming.
No Internal DAC
There is no DAC chip or analogue output stage inside the Staccato.
This means the final digital-to-analogue conversion is performed entirely by the external component connected to its coaxial or optical output.
The Staccato can therefore be partnered with:
- Standalone DACs
- Integrated amplifiers with digital inputs
- Preamplifiers with internal DACs
- AV receivers
- Active speakers with digital inputs
- Headphone amplifiers containing a DAC
This modular arrangement also allows the DAC to be upgraded independently at a later date.
Coaxial S/PDIF Digital Output
The rear RCA connector is a coaxial S/PDIF digital output.
It is not an analogue RCA line output.
A 75-ohm digital coaxial cable should be used to connect it to a compatible DAC or amplifier.
The RCA Socket Is Digital
Do not connect the Staccato's RCA socket to a conventional analogue CD, Aux or Line input.
Although it uses the familiar RCA connector, it carries an S/PDIF digital signal and must connect to a coaxial digital input.
Optical Toslink Digital Output
A Toslink optical output provides a second way to connect the Staccato to an external DAC.
Optical transmission electrically isolates the Staccato from the receiving component because the audio data is carried using light rather than an electrical conductor.
This can be useful where:
- Electrical isolation is desirable
- A DAC has no spare coaxial input
- Ground-loop problems are present
- The connected amplifier includes a convenient optical input
Coaxial or Optical?
Try Coaxial When
- Your DAC has a high-quality coaxial input
- A suitable 75-ohm digital cable is available
- You want to compare electrical S/PDIF with optical
- Ground-loop isolation is not required
Try Optical When
- Electrical isolation is useful
- Your DAC's optical input performs particularly well
- You need to avoid an electrical connection between components
- The coaxial input is already occupied
Neither output should automatically be assumed to sound better. The implementation within the receiving DAC can make as much difference as the transmission format itself.
Ethernet Network Connection
The Staccato connects to the home network through a 10/100Mbps Ethernet socket.
A wired network connection has several advantages for audio streaming:
- Stable data transfer
- Reduced dependence on local Wi-Fi conditions
- Consistent access to network libraries
- Reliable high-resolution music playback
- Reduced likelihood of dropouts in busy wireless environments
The Staccato and controlling mobile device must be connected to the same home network for normal network-app operation.
No Wi-Fi Network Connection
The Staccato does not contain conventional Wi-Fi network connectivity.
The rear antenna is provided for Bluetooth rather than Wi-Fi.
An Ethernet connection is therefore required for network streaming, UPnP/DLNA and internet-based services.
Router Too Far From the Hi-Fi?
If an Ethernet cable cannot conveniently be run directly from the router, suitable network infrastructure such as a nearby network switch, properly configured wireless bridge or other Ethernet extension may provide a practical solution.
Network quality can affect streaming reliability, so Audio T can advise on suitable installation options.
Bluetooth 4.2
Bluetooth provides a convenient alternative to network streaming.
A compatible phone, tablet or computer can send audio directly to the Staccato without navigating a network music library.
Bluetooth is particularly useful for:
- Visitors
- Occasional listening
- Applications without dedicated network integration
- Quick playback from a mobile device
For serious listening, the wired Ethernet-based streaming options are generally the more appropriate starting point.
USB 2.0 Storage Input
The rear USB-A socket is intended for compatible USB storage containing music files.
This allows locally stored music to be played without requiring a separate computer or NAS to remain switched on.
Suitable devices may include:
- USB memory sticks
- Compatible portable hard drives
- Compatible USB solid-state drives
USB Is Not a Digital Audio Output
The Staccato's USB-A connection is intended for compatible storage devices.
It does not operate as a USB audio output to an external DAC.
Connect the Staccato to a DAC using its coaxial or optical S/PDIF output.
UPnP and DLNA Network Music
The Staccato can access compatible music libraries shared across the local network.
This allows music stored on equipment such as a compatible:
- NAS drive
- Computer
- Music server
- UPnP/DLNA media server
to be browsed and played without physically connecting the storage device to the Staccato.
The server software, metadata and network configuration will influence how albums and tracks are presented within the control interface.
Spotify Connect
The Staccato platform supports Spotify Connect.
Rather than streaming the music from the phone to the Staccato over Bluetooth, the Spotify application acts as a controller and the Staccato retrieves the stream through its own network connection.
This allows the phone or tablet to continue being used normally while playback continues.
TIDAL
TIDAL support was incorporated into the Staccato streaming platform and TIDAL Connect was supported in the product's released software environment.
Because streaming services can change authentication methods, APIs and supported hardware over time, current service compatibility should always be checked when purchasing an older network product.
Qobuz
Qobuz has also been available through the Staccato's streaming ecosystem.
Availability and control method can depend on the current version of the EarMen streaming software and third-party service support.
Customers relying on a particular streaming service should confirm current compatibility before purchase.
Internet Radio
Internet-radio functionality provides access to online radio stations without requiring a conventional FM or DAB tuner.
Station availability depends on the online radio directory and individual broadcaster streams remaining available.
EarMen Stream Control
The Staccato was designed around EarMen's Stream control software for browsing music libraries, online services and internet radio.
The controller and Staccato need to be on the same network during normal Ethernet-based operation.
Check Current App Compatibility
The Staccato is a software-dependent network product and mobile operating systems, streaming services and app-store availability can change over time.
If control from a particular current iPhone, iPad or Android device is essential, check current app availability and compatibility before purchase.
Audio T can help confirm the practical control options available with current stock.
No Front Display
The Staccato does not contain an artwork screen or conventional text display.
A simple front status LED indicates network and power conditions while browsing and music selection take place through the connected control device.
This contributes to the understated appearance of the compact chassis, but customers wanting album artwork permanently displayed on the Hi-Fi rack may prefer a streamer with an integrated screen.
Front Status LED
The front bi-colour LED provides basic operating information.
During network startup, the blue indicator flashes while the Staccato searches for a connection.
Once a wired network connection has been established, the blue LED remains illuminated.
A red and blue alternating indication signals that the LAN connection is unavailable, while red is displayed during the shutdown process.
High-Resolution File Playback
EarMen literature specifies compatibility with digital music files up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256.
This allows high-resolution files stored on compatible USB media or network servers to form part of a Staccato music library.
File Compatibility and Digital Output Are Not the Same Thing
The quoted 32-bit/384kHz and DSD256 figures describe the Staccato's published playback capability.
The Staccato then connects to the external DAC through optical or coaxial S/PDIF.
The format and sample rate ultimately accepted by the DAC will therefore depend on the selected digital output, the receiving DAC and the way the Staccato handles that particular source file.
Do not assume that every supported high-resolution source format is necessarily transmitted natively at its original rate through both S/PDIF outputs.
Why Use a Separate Streamer and DAC?
Separating network streaming from digital-to-analogue conversion allows each part of the source system to be selected independently.
This can make sense where:
- You already own a DAC you like
- Your amplifier already has a high-quality DAC
- You want to change streamers without replacing the DAC
- You want to upgrade the DAC later
- Keeping network processing away from analogue circuitry appeals
The downside is that two components and an additional digital interconnect are required instead of one combined streamer/DAC.
Using the Staccato with the EarMen Tradutto
The EarMen Tradutto DAC was developed as the natural conversion partner for the Staccato.
Connect the Staccato's coaxial or optical digital output to the corresponding input on the Tradutto.
The Tradutto then performs digital-to-analogue conversion and sends analogue audio onwards to an amplifier or headphone system.
Using the Staccato with Another DAC
There is no requirement to use an EarMen DAC.
Any suitable DAC with a compatible optical or coaxial S/PDIF input can potentially be used.
This makes the Staccato useful as a compact streaming upgrade for an existing digital system.
Using the Staccato with a DAC-Equipped Amplifier
A separate standalone DAC may not be necessary if the existing amplifier already contains suitable digital inputs.
The Staccato can connect directly to a compatible coaxial or optical input on the amplifier, which then performs conversion internally.
This can create a particularly simple system consisting of:
- EarMen Staccato
- DAC-equipped integrated amplifier
- Loudspeakers
Using the Staccato with Active Speakers
Active loudspeakers with a suitable optical or coaxial digital input can also potentially be connected directly to the Staccato.
If the speakers provide analogue inputs only, an external DAC is required between the Staccato and speakers.
Staccato, Tradutto and CH-Amp
The Staccato was designed as part of EarMen's matching desktop system.
A complete signal chain can consist of:
- Staccato network streamer
- Tradutto DAC
- CH-Amp headphone amplifier and pre-amplifier
- PSU-3 linear power supply
The Staccato handles network and stored music, Tradutto performs conversion and CH-Amp provides headphone amplification or analogue pre-amplifier control.
PSU-3 Compatibility
The standard Staccato can operate from its own compatible 9-12V DC power supply.
When used as part of the matching EarMen stack, it can also be powered from one of the compatible auxiliary outputs on the PSU-3 supplied with the CH-Amp.
This reduces the number of separate plug-top supplies required by a complete EarMen desktop system.
Use Only a Compatible Power Supply
The Staccato requires the correct DC voltage, polarity and available current.
Do not substitute an arbitrary power supply simply because the connector appears to fit.
Use the supplied supply or a specifically compatible EarMen power solution.
Compact Aluminium Chassis
The Staccato measures approximately 150 x 150 x 30mm and weighs around 1.18kg.
That weight is substantial for such a small network device and reflects its solid metal construction.
The dimensions match other components in the EarMen desktop range, allowing the system to be stacked neatly where appropriate.
Staccato or an All-in-One Streamer/DAC?
Choose the Staccato When
- You already own a good DAC
- Your amplifier already contains a DAC
- You want streaming duties kept separate from conversion
- Coaxial or optical output covers your system
- A compact digital transport is preferred
- You want to build the EarMen desktop stack
Choose a Streamer with DAC When
- You want analogue outputs directly from the streamer
- You prefer one box rather than two
- A USB DAC output is important
- Integrated volume control is required
- You want a screen or richer front-panel interface
- You do not already own a suitable DAC
Staccato or Bluetooth Direct to a DAC?
A Bluetooth-equipped DAC can provide a very simple wireless route from a phone, but a dedicated network streamer offers a different style of operation.
Network streaming can provide advantages including:
- Direct access to online services
- UPnP/DLNA library access
- USB storage playback
- Internet radio
- Reduced dependence on the phone remaining within Bluetooth range
The Staccato still includes Bluetooth for occasions where convenience takes priority.
System Matching
Well Suited To
- Existing standalone DACs
- DAC-equipped integrated amplifiers
- DAC-equipped pre-amplifiers
- Active speakers with digital inputs
- EarMen Tradutto
- EarMen CH-Amp systems
- Network music libraries
- NAS-based music collections
- USB storage
- Spotify Connect
- Internet radio
- Compact desktop Hi-Fi systems
Check Before Buying
- No internal DAC
- No analogue RCA output
- No balanced analogue output
- No headphone output
- No USB audio output to a DAC
- No conventional Wi-Fi network connection
- Ethernet required for network streaming
- No front display or album artwork
- No AirPlay support documented
- No confirmed Roon Ready certification
- Control-app availability should be checked with current mobile devices
- Streaming-service availability can change
- External DAC required for analogue audio
Connection and Setup Guidance
- Connect the Staccato to the home network using Ethernet.
- Connect its coaxial or optical digital output to a suitable DAC.
- Do not connect the coaxial RCA socket to an analogue RCA input.
- Use the USB-A socket for compatible storage rather than as a USB DAC output.
- Connect the controlling mobile device to the same home network.
- Check current EarMen control-app compatibility before relying on a particular mobile platform.
- Confirm current support for any streaming service that is essential to your listening.
- Use a proper 75-ohm digital coaxial cable for the coax output.
- Use a suitable optical Toslink cable for optical connection.
- Check the maximum accepted digital format of the connected DAC.
- Use only an appropriate compatible DC power supply.
- Allow reasonable airflow around the chassis.
Key Features
- Compact network music streamer
- Digital audio transport
- No internal DAC
- External DAC required
- Coaxial S/PDIF output
- Optical Toslink output
- 10/100Mbps Ethernet
- Bluetooth 4.2
- Rear Bluetooth antenna
- USB 2.0 storage input
- UPnP/DLNA music playback
- NAS music-library playback
- USB-drive music playback
- Spotify Connect
- TIDAL platform support
- Qobuz platform compatibility
- Internet radio
- Published PCM file support to 32-bit/384kHz
- Published DSD file support to DSD256
- Digital-only audio outputs
- No analogue line output
- No headphone amplifier
- No Wi-Fi network connection
- No USB DAC output
- No display
- Front bi-colour status LED
- Compact aluminium chassis
- 150mm square footprint
- 30mm chassis height
- Approximately 1.18kg weight
- 9-12V DC power requirement
- 2A power-supply requirement
- Up to 20W published maximum power consumption
- Compatible with EarMen PSU-3 system
- Matching EarMen Tradutto form factor
- Matching EarMen CH-Amp system
- Two-year manufacturer warranty subject to EarMen terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EarMen Staccato?
It is a compact network music streamer and digital transport designed to send streamed or locally stored digital music to an external DAC.
Does the Staccato contain a DAC?
No. An external DAC or another component containing a compatible digital-to-analogue converter is required.
Does it have analogue RCA outputs?
No. The rear RCA socket is a coaxial S/PDIF digital output.
Can I connect it directly to an analogue amplifier?
Not unless a DAC is placed between the Staccato and the amplifier. A DAC-equipped amplifier with optical or coaxial digital input can be connected directly.
Which digital outputs does it have?
One coaxial S/PDIF output using an RCA connector and one optical Toslink output.
Does it have USB audio output?
No. The rear USB connection is intended for compatible storage devices rather than for sending USB audio to a DAC.
Can I connect a USB hard drive?
Compatible USB storage can be connected for local music playback.
Can it access music from a NAS?
Yes. UPnP/DLNA-compatible network libraries can be accessed over the local network.
Does it have Wi-Fi?
No conventional Wi-Fi network connection is provided. Network streaming uses the wired Ethernet connection.
What is the rear antenna for?
It is used for Bluetooth rather than Wi-Fi networking.
Does it have Ethernet?
Yes. A 10/100Mbps Ethernet connection is provided.
Does it have Bluetooth?
Yes. Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity is provided.
Does it support Spotify Connect?
Yes. Spotify Connect was incorporated into the Staccato platform.
Does it support TIDAL?
Yes, TIDAL support was provided by the Staccato streaming platform. As with any older network product, current third-party service compatibility should be confirmed before purchase.
Does it support Qobuz?
Qobuz has been available through the EarMen streaming environment. Current service and app compatibility should be checked before purchase.
Does it have internet radio?
Yes. Internet-radio services are available through the streaming platform, subject to current service availability.
Is it Roon Ready?
No confirmed Roon Ready certification is published for the Staccato. Do not purchase it on the assumption that it can operate as a native Roon Ready endpoint.
Does it support AirPlay?
AirPlay support is not documented for the production Staccato and should not be assumed.
Does it have a display?
No. A simple front status LED is provided and browsing is handled through the control device.
What do the front LED colours mean?
Blue flashes while establishing the network connection and remains blue when connected. Alternating red and blue indicates a missing LAN connection, while red is used during shutdown.
Does it support 32-bit/384kHz music?
EarMen published file-playback compatibility up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM. The actual format delivered to the external DAC also depends on the Staccato's S/PDIF output behaviour and the receiving DAC.
Does it support DSD?
EarMen published compatibility with DSD files up to DSD256. This should not be interpreted as a guarantee that native DSD256 is transmitted unchanged through its optical or coaxial S/PDIF outputs.
Can I use it with the EarMen Tradutto?
Yes. The Tradutto is a natural partner and can be connected using coaxial or optical S/PDIF.
Can I use a different DAC?
Yes. Any suitable external DAC with a compatible coaxial or optical input can potentially be used.
Can it connect to an amplifier with a built-in DAC?
Yes, provided the amplifier has a compatible optical or coaxial digital input.
Can it connect directly to active speakers?
Only if the active speakers contain a suitable digital input and DAC. Analogue-only active speakers require an external DAC.
Can it be powered by the PSU-3?
Yes. The PSU-3 supplied with the CH-Amp provides compatible auxiliary power outputs that can be used with the matching Staccato and Tradutto system.
Does the Staccato include the PSU-3?
No. PSU-3 forms part of the CH-Amp package rather than the standalone Staccato.
Does it include its own power supply?
The standalone Staccato package was supplied with an appropriate DC power supply. Included accessories should be confirmed with current stock.
What power does it require?
EarMen specifies 9-12V DC at up to 2A.
How much power does it consume?
The current Audio T specification quotes a maximum consumption of 20W.
How large is it?
Approximately 150 x 150 x 30mm.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 1.18kg.
Is the Staccato app controlled?
Yes. It was designed around EarMen's Stream control software as well as compatible direct-service control such as Spotify Connect.
Should I check app compatibility before buying?
Yes. App-store availability, mobile operating systems and streaming-service integrations can change over time, particularly with older network products. Check compatibility with the device and services you intend to use.
What is the warranty?
EarMen specifies a two-year limited manufacturer warranty, subject to registration, proof of purchase and the company's current warranty conditions.
Related EarMen Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- EarMen Staccato demonstrations
- Network-streaming setup advice
- DAC matching
- Coaxial and optical connection comparisons
- NAS and UPnP setup guidance
- USB music-library advice
- Streaming-service compatibility guidance
- Ethernet network installation advice
- Tradutto and CH-Amp system matching
- PSU-3 integration guidance
- Comparison with combined streamer/DAC products
- Ongoing setup and after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss adding the EarMen Staccato to an existing DAC, amplifier or digital Hi-Fi system.