FERRUM BROEN Streamer Digital Transport

The Ferrum BROEN is a network transport designed to play digital audio content and transmit it to an external DAC. It is based on the Volumio platform and supports the main streaming services, UPnP/DLNA network playback, AirPlay, Internet radio as well as CD playback, while allowing multiroom management depending on the equipment used. Its role is to centralize playback and provide the DAC with a digital output suited to the installation.

Ferrum BROEN: Volumio platform

The integration of Volumio gives access to Spotify and Spotify Connect, Tidal and Tidal Connect, Qobuz, AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA servers and Internet radio. Control is carried out from a smartphone, tablet or computer, via the Volumio interface and its functions for searching, sorting and displaying information about albums and artists. Firmware updates can be performed remotely, while the platform supports the addition of compatible plugins.

Ferrum BROEN: SERCE module and digital processing

The BROEN incorporates the SERCE module, dedicated to internal digital conversions and processing. Its architecture separates the input and output domains, while the digital audio outputs benefit from galvanic isolation designed to limit the propagation of interference between the different circuits. Low-jitter internal clocks ensure the synchronization of digital streams before their transmission to the DAC.

Ferrum BROEN: Network connectivity

Connection to the network can be made over Wi-Fi or by wired link, via the RJ45 Ethernet port or the SFP slot. The latter accepts a standard Ethernet module or an optical module, allowing the link to be adapted to the network infrastructure used and to physically separate data transport when the installation requires it. An internal SSD slot (SSD not included) is also provided to expand local storage possibilities.

Ferrum BROEN: Digital outputs

The BROEN offers several output formats to adapt to different DACs: AES/EBU on XLR, S/PDIF coaxial on RCA, S/PDIF optical TOSLINK, I2S and USB on type A and type C connectors. This connectivity allows the appropriate link to be selected according to the DAC used, while also enabling the connection of an external screen via HDMI to display the Volumio interface.

Ferrum BROEN: Ferrum FSCT integration

Thanks to Ferrum Streaming Control Technology, the BROEN can be paired with the Ferrum WANDLA and ERCO Gen 2 DACs (sold separately). Control from the WANDLA's touchscreen or remote allows playback to be managed and track information to be displayed without directly using the network transport's interface. This integration facilitates the use of the BROEN in a system entirely made up of Ferrum components.