Lumin P2 Network Music Hub

The brand Lumin has long been associated with high-performance network audio components designed for demanding HiFi systems. Behind the brand stands Pixel Magic Systems Ltd., a company that has focused on digital audio streaming technologies for many years and whose products are widely used in high-end stereo systems worldwide.

With the Lumin P2 Network Music Hub, Pixel Magic Systems Ltd. expands its portfolio with a device intended to combine several classic HiFi components into a single system. The unit integrates a network streaming player, a high-end DAC and a preamplifier, allowing it to serve as the central control and signal processing unit within a modern HiFi setup. The concept addresses users who want to connect multiple digital and analog sources while maintaining a streamlined system architecture.

Key Facts

• Integrated network music hub combining streaming player, DAC and preamplifier
• Dual-mono DAC design based on two ESS SABRE ES9038PRO converter chips
• Supports DSD up to DSD512 and Linear PCM up to 32 Bit und 384 kHz
• Multiple digital and analog inputs enabling flexible system integration
• HDMI 2.0 interface with 4K passthrough and HDMI ARC functionality
• Lossless digital volume control based on Leedh Processing
• Dual-toroidal power supply separating analog and digital stages
• Network connectivity via Gigabit Ethernet or optical SFP fibre connection
• Streaming platform compatibility including Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect and Apple AirPlay
• App control available for Apple iOS, Google Android and additional platforms

A central component for modern HiFi systems

The design concept behind the Lumin P2 Network Music Hub is centered on the idea of a single control unit that links multiple audio sources to a power amplifier or active loudspeakers. In practical use, this means that users can connect both streaming services and traditional playback devices directly to the system.

According to Pixel Magic Systems Ltd., the device provides a total of nine inputs covering both digital and analog sources. Digital connectivity includes USB Audio, AES as well as S/PDIF optisch and S/PDIF koaxial interfaces. In addition, analog sources can be connected via balanced XLR inputs or unbalanced Cinch connectors.

This architecture allows the P2 to operate not only as a streaming player but also as a high-performance DAC for external transports such as CD transports or other digital sources. At the same time, the integrated preamplifier stage enables the system to function as the main control unit in a stereo setup.

HDMI integration for TV and multimedia applications

A notable feature of the Lumin P2 is its HDMI functionality. Multiple HDMI 2.0 inputs allow video sources to pass through the device, supporting video signals up to 4K resolution.

In addition, HDMI ARC enables the system to receive audio from a television. This allows users to route TV sound directly into a high-quality stereo system, providing an alternative to conventional AV receivers when the focus remains on two-channel audio performance.

For many users, this functionality can simplify system design, allowing a single stereo system to serve both music playback and television audio.

Dual DAC architecture for precise signal conversion

At the core of the digital signal processing stage lies a dual-mono converter design based on two ESS SABRE ES9038PRO DAC chips. Each channel uses its own converter, which according to the manufacturer contributes to improved channel separation and signal precision.

The system supports audio formats up to DSD512 and Linear PCM up to 32 Bit und 384 kHz, enabling playback of high-resolution audio content from both local libraries and streaming services.

Internal processing also includes upsampling capabilities that can convert incoming signals to higher sampling rates. A dedicated Femto clock system is implemented to ensure accurate timing throughout the digital signal chain, with the goal of reducing jitter during high-resolution playback.

Analog output stage with transformer coupling

While many network players emphasize digital processing, the Lumin P2 also incorporates a carefully designed analog stage. The output section is fully balanced and uses high-quality output transformers supplied by the Swedish manufacturer Lundahl.

These transformers provide galvanic isolation between digital and analog stages, which can help minimize interference and maintain signal integrity. Combined with the dual-mono design, the analog circuitry follows a design philosophy derived from higher-level models within the Lumin product range.

Power is supplied by an internal dual-toroidal power supply. Separate transformer windings provide independent power rails for digital and analog sections, reducing potential electrical interference between the two.

Streaming architecture and platform integration

As a network streaming device, the Lumin P2 operates on a streaming architecture based on the UPnP AV protocol with OpenHome extensions. This framework allows the system to integrate both locally stored music libraries and a wide range of streaming services.

Compatibility includes Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect and Spotify Connect. Apple AirPlay is also supported, and internet radio services can be accessed through the system.

Control is handled via the Lumin control application, which is available for Apple iOS and Google Android devices as well as additional platforms. The application allows users to browse music libraries, select streaming services and manage playback across the system.

Flexible networking including optical fibre

Network connectivity offers multiple options. In addition to a conventional Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 connection, the Lumin P2 also supports an optical fibre network connection using an SFP module.

The use of fibre networking can provide electrical isolation between the audio system and the rest of the network infrastructure. This design approach aims to minimize potential electrical noise entering the audio signal path via network cabling.

Flexible system integration

The architecture of the Lumin P2 enables several different integration scenarios. In a streamlined configuration, the unit can act as a streaming DAC connected directly to a power amplifier.

The built-in digital volume control based on Leedh Processing allows precise level adjustment without introducing additional analog circuitry. This makes it possible to operate the system without a separate analog preamplifier.

Alternatively, the device can serve as the central switching unit for multiple sources. Digital transports, analog components and streaming services can all be integrated into a single control platform.

A further application scenario involves integration with television audio via HDMI ARC, allowing a high-quality stereo system to handle both music playback and TV sound.

Price and availability

The Lumin P2 Network Music Hub is available through authorized HiFi retailers. The unit is offered in two chassis finishes made from solid aluminium: a classic black anodized version and a natural aluminium finish. The recommended retail price is € 10.990,-.

Conclusion

With the Lumin P2, Pixel Magic Systems Ltd. pursues a concept with the latest solution of the Lumin brand that is becoming increasingly important in modern HiFi systems: a central, powerful control and signal processing unit for all audio sources. By combining a streaming player, DAC and preamplifier in one device and adding extensive connectivity including HDMI ARC, the system addresses the growing demand for central audio hubs in contemporary stereo setups. For HiFi enthusiasts looking to integrate streaming services, traditional digital sources and television audio within a single high-performance platform, the Lumin P2 offers a flexible and technically sophisticated solution.

Technical specifications