Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport with SERCE Digital-to-Digital Engine and Volumio OS

The Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport is now available, almost nine months after Ferrum Audio first outlined its plans for the product in October 2025. Rather than revisiting the familiar formula of combining a streamer and D/A converter in one chassis, the Polish HiFi manufacturer has taken a more disciplined route: BROEN is an entirely digital source for systems in which conversion is entrusted to a separate DAC. Its technical foundation comprises the newly developed Ferrum SERCE DDC Module with FPGA-based reclocking, galvanic isolation across every audio output and distinct circuit domains for streaming, control and digital signal delivery. Volumio OS provides the streaming and user-interface platform, while Ferrum Streaming Control Technology, or FSCT, establishes particularly close communication with D/A converters from the Ferrum WANDLA family.

Key Facts Ferrum BROEN

• Network Streaming Transport without an integrated D/A converter
• First announced in October 2025 and now in regular production
• Ferrum SERCE DDC Module with FPGA-based reclocking
• Separate domains for streaming, control and digital audio output
• Galvanically isolated synchronous digital and USB audio outputs
• AES/EBU, coaxial and optical S/PDIF, I²S and USB Audio
• Dual-band WiFi and modular SFP connection for Ethernet or optical fibre
• RJ45 SFP module included
• Volumio OS with Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz, Apple AirPlay and UPnP/DLNA
• Playback from USB storage, NAS and an optional internal M.2 NVMe SSD
• Ferrum Streaming Control Technology for integration with Ferrum WANDLA
• Compatible with Ferrum HYPSOS through Ferrum Power Link with 4TSD
• OTA updates and a plugin-compatible software platform
• Available now, priced at € 1.995,-

A Network Streaming Transport rather than a streaming DAC

Ferrum is quite explicit about what BROEN is not. This is not a conventional network player with D/A conversion built into the chassis, nor is it intended to replace a complete digital front end in one stroke. It provides digital outputs only and is aimed at listeners who already own a capable DAC or deliberately prefer to keep network streaming and digital conversion in separate components.

The name is intended to make that role plain. BROEN is Danish for “the bridge”, reflecting Ferrum Audio’s view of the product as the digital link between streaming services, locally stored music and an external D/A converter. By narrowing the device’s remit in this way, Ferrum has been able to concentrate its engineering resources on the handling, timing and delivery of digital audio data rather than dividing the design around an additional analogue output stage.

Nor is the Ferrum BROEN locked to the company’s own converters. Ferrum WANDLA and Ferrum ERCO Gen 2 receive the most extensive system integration, but the standardised digital outputs allow the Network Streaming Transport to be partnered with D/A converters from other manufacturers just as readily.

Ferrum SERCE DDC Module at the centre of the design

The principal technical component is the newly developed Ferrum SERCE DDC Module. SERCE operates as a Digital-to-Digital Converter, processing and retiming incoming audio data before directing it to the selected digital output.

To support this process, Ferrum separates the circuitry responsible for streaming and system control from the domain handling synchronous digital output. FPGA-based reclocking is employed to reduce timing fluctuations in the digital signal, while dedicated low-jitter audio clocks govern the synchronous interfaces.

These clocks serve the AES/EBU, coaxial S/PDIF, optical S/PDIF and I²S outputs. Ferrum has also placed a galvanic barrier ahead of every audio output. According to the manufacturer, this isolation applies not only to the synchronous connections but also to both USB outputs intended for external D/A converters. USB Audio additionally benefits from a dedicated VBUS supply designed to minimise electrical interference.

The priorities are clear. BROEN addresses the electrical and timing conditions that can affect a digital signal before conversion takes place. High-frequency interference, ground loops and less-than-ideal clock behaviour originating in the network and streaming sections are intended to be kept away from the connected DAC as effectively as possible.

Digital outputs for a broad range of DAC configurations

The rear panel offers a notably comprehensive collection of digital interfaces. Conventional HiFi components can be connected through coaxial S/PDIF, optical S/PDIF or AES/EBU. A configurable I²S output is also provided through an HDMI socket.

Two dedicated USB outputs, one USB Type-A and one USB Type-C, permit direct connection to USB DACs. Owners can therefore select the interface best suited to the capabilities of their converter or to the way in which the wider system has been assembled.

A separate HDMI output is used to display the user interface and system information on an external screen. It is distinct from the HDMI socket configured for I²S audio transmission and the two should not be confused.

Trigger input and output connections complete the system-control provision, enabling BROEN to be incorporated into an installation in which several components are switched on and off together.

Ethernet, WiFi or optical networking through SFP

Ferrum has resisted the temptation to treat network connectivity as a choice between ordinary Ethernet and WiFi alone. Dual-band WiFi at 2.4 and 5 GHz is fitted as standard, together with a hotspot mode intended to simplify initial configuration.

Wired networking is handled through a modular SFP port. An SFP module for standard RJ45 Ethernet cables is included with the product. Alternatively, an optical SFP module can be installed, allowing BROEN to connect by optical fibre to a suitably equipped network switch.

An optical link provides inherent galvanic isolation from the remainder of the network. Electrical interference generated by routers, switches or their power supplies is therefore prevented from travelling along the network cable and into the streaming transport.

The modular approach preserves both possibilities. BROEN can be added to an ordinary Ethernet network without further expenditure, while owners of more elaborate installations retain the option of creating an optically isolated network path.

Volumio OS provides streaming and control

Streaming, music-library management and day-to-day operation are based on Volumio OS. Ferrum Audio states that the relevant functionality is included in the purchase price of the Ferrum BROEN and does not require an additional Volumio subscription.

The platform supports Spotify and Spotify Connect, TIDAL and TIDAL Connect, as well as Qobuz and Qobuz Connect. Apple AirPlay is implemented through Shairport Sync, while BROEN can also operate as a UPnP/DLNA Renderer. Integrated Internet Radio directories broaden the choice of online sources.

Volumio OS additionally provides SuperSearch, Infinity Playback and extended album and artist information. Its user interface is available in 29 languages and includes both alarm and sleep functions.

Control is possible through apps for Apple iOS and Google Android or from any suitable web browser. Front-panel buttons provide essential playback commands at the unit itself, avoiding the need to reach for a smartphone, tablet or computer whenever a simple intervention is required.

Connecting an external display through HDMI also permits the Volumio OS interface to be shown on a larger screen.

Local music libraries and internal SSD storage

BROEN is not limited to online streaming services. Music can be played from USB storage devices, a NAS through DLNA or an optional internal SSD. Supported formats are MP3, WMA, AAC, ALAC, FLAC, APE, WAV and DSD.

An internal M.2 NVMe slot accepts SSDs measuring either 80 or 110 mm in length. The drive itself is not supplied. This allows a local music library to reside within the Ferrum BROEN, removing the need to keep a separate NAS or server running whenever locally stored music is played.

Two USB 3.0 connections, provided as USB Type-A and USB Type-C, accommodate storage devices and service functions. Ferrum also identifies Audio CD playback and ripping among the capabilities of the platform.

Multiroom playback is specified for up to six synchronised zones. Output to Sonos and Google Chromecast solutions is also supported, alongside Bluetooth A2DP for straightforward wireless playback.

Ferrum BROEN and WANDLA as a combined streaming hub

BROEN reaches its deepest level of integration when paired with a D/A converter from the Ferrum WANDLA family. The link is established through Ferrum Streaming Control Technology.

When BROEN and WANDLA are connected through USB, track title, artist, album information and playback status appear on the converter’s touchscreen. Playback can then be controlled directly from this display or by using the WANDLA remote control.

In everyday use, the two components can consequently behave much like a single streaming DAC and preamplifier, despite the streaming transport and conversion electronics remaining in separate enclosures. The benefits of a modular system are preserved without surrendering the convenience associated with a more integrated product.

Ferrum Streaming Control Technology is also designed to support the Ferrum ERCO Gen 2. With D/A converters from other manufacturers, BROEN operates as a conventional streaming transport through whichever digital interface has been selected.

Ferrum HYPSOS as an optional power supply

Like other components from the Polish manufacturer, Ferrum BROEN can be partnered with the Ferrum HYPSOS Hybrid Power System. Connection is made through Ferrum Power Link and uses the company’s 4TSD voltage-sensing technology.

This arrangement regulates the supply voltage not merely at the output of the power supply, but with the connected component included in the sensing loop. Ferrum’s aim is to deliver a supply that remains both stable and accurately matched to the device being powered.

With a Ferrum HYPSOS Dual Output, BROEN and WANDLA can be supplied from the same external power system. This establishes a clearly structured upgrade path. BROEN can begin as an independent streaming transport with almost any suitable DAC, later be partnered with a Ferrum WANDLA and ultimately become part of a complete Ferrum streaming system powered by HYPSOS.

A platform designed to evolve

OTA updates allow new firmware to be installed directly through the network. Ferrum also describes the implementation of Volumio OS on BROEN as a plugin-compatible platform, leaving scope for additional functionality in future.

This degree of flexibility is particularly relevant in a networked audio product, where connectivity, storage requirements and software services rarely remain static. The SFP concept accommodates different network media, the M.2 NVMe slot creates space for a self-contained local library, and the software architecture leaves room for further development.

The key benefits at a glance

• Freedom to choose the D/A converter: Ferrum BROEN can be connected to Ferrum DACs or converters from other manufacturers through a wide range of digital interfaces.
• Purposefully separated circuit domains: Streaming, system control and digital audio output are kept apart to reduce the risk of interference reaching the outgoing signal.
• Galvanically isolated audio connections: Isolation covers the synchronous digital interfaces as well as both USB connections intended for external D/A converters.
• Adaptable network connectivity: WiFi, conventional Ethernet and optional optical-fibre networking allow BROEN to suit anything from a straightforward home network to a more carefully isolated digital system.
• Broad streaming-service support: Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Apple AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA and Internet Radio are available through Volumio OS.
• Close integration with Ferrum WANDLA: Track information and playback controls can be accessed through the WANDLA touchscreen and remote control when the two products are connected by USB.
• A local library without a separate NAS: An optional internal M.2 NVMe SSD can store music directly inside the Ferrum BROEN.
• A system that can grow in stages: WANDLA and HYPSOS can be added progressively, while BROEN remains entirely usable without either component.

Price and availability

First announced in autumn 2025, the Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport is now in production and available through authorised retailers. The manufacturer’s recommended retail price is € 1.995,-. An RJ45 SFP module for connection to a conventional Ethernet network is included, while an optical SFP module and M.2 NVMe SSD are available separately.

Conclusion

Ferrum Audio presented BROEN last autumn as a strategically important addition to its range. The production version makes clear that the company was not simply preparing another streamer whose principal selling point would be the length of its feature list. BROEN has been designed as a dedicated digital source, and its attention remains firmly on the processes that precede D/A conversion.

The combination of the SERCE DDC Module, galvanic isolation, multiple digital output formats and a distinctly uncommon SFP network interface gives the product a coherent technical identity. Its most elegant application may well be alongside a Ferrum WANDLA, where the two units approach the convenience of an integrated streaming DAC and preamplifier. The more important point, however, is that the concept does not depend upon that pairing. At € 1.995,-, Ferrum BROEN is a specialised streaming transport that combines the usability of Volumio OS with the freedom to retain, replace or upgrade the D/A converter independently.

Technical specifications