Another possible setup would utilize a bluetooth module, controlled via infrared. When running the streamer on battery, like a powerbank, only a bluetooth speaker would be needed to have a completely mobile system. This is the plan I have for my garden setup.

Regarding a specific project name, my sons have already bee very creative, although their suggestions thus far have had room for improvement. They range from Max2Grill to WhiskyBerry.

But back to the titular player of this article. It is a base configuration with affordable parts and a permanently installed HiFiBerry DAC.

The power is routed through a small Meanwell power supply which covers all the installed components. Display and Pi are connected by a ribbon cable and the DAC sits right on top of the Raspberry Pi. So far, I would characterize this setup as a classic streamer system with Max2Play, absolutely ideal for the daily use it gets in our household.

Since I am often asked about the specific parts I used, I have tried to compile a list that is as complete as possible:

1x Max2Play license

1x Raspberry Pi

1x Raspberry 7 Zoll Touch-Display

1x Hifiberry DAC-Pro+

1x Meanwell Power Supply RS-25-5 (5V 25W)

1x IEC combination module (power port, safety, switch)

1x RCA-port Neutrik Rean yellow

1x RCA-port Neutrik Rean red

1x RCA-port Neutrik Rean black

1x RCA-port Neutrik Rean red

1x RCA-port Neutrik Rean black

1x Ethernet RJ45 panelmount-cable

1x HDMI panelmount-cable

2x USB Typ A panelmount-cable

1x S/PDIC optical mountconnector, z.B. Cliff CP30217MB

1x WiFi-Stick Edimax EW-7612UAn V2

2x old microUSB-cable (old cellphone charger cable) for power supply connection

1x ribbon cable, Type FFC, 15 Pin, Pitch 1, 150mm

As mentioned, these are not always the most affordable options. The main focus was on reasonable quality and long-term replaceability. So please take this list only as an example.

Editor’s Note: You can get the HiFiBerry DAC Bundle with Pi, Sound Card, Power Supply and Max2Play SD-Card for all the essentials to get started.

Max2Play is currently running on multiple devices simultaneously in our music cellar. This way we get to compare the different components and configurations directly.