HEOS Link (HS2) Wireless Multi-Room Audio Streamer Review
HEOS Link (HS2) Wireless Multi-Room Audio Streamer Review
Welcome to our HEOS Link (HS2) Wireless Multi-Room Audio Streamer Review, where we unpack Denon’s latest HEOS streamer and explore how it revolutionises multi-room audio for the discerning audiophile. With dual-band “N” wireless, a full complement of digital and analogue I/O, and seamless HEOS App control, this compact powerhouse elevates any existing HiFi or home theatre system into a networked music hub. Ready to experience true hi-fi freedom? Let’s dive in.
Design & Build Quality
The HEOS Link HS2 sports a sleek, silver-accented chassis—compact at 74×155×150 mm and robustly engineered. The side-panel volume control knob is tactile and precise, ideal for quick level tweaks. Multicoloured LED indicators on the front panel provide status feedback at a glance, while the rear houses an RJ-45 Ethernet port, USB input, optical/coaxial digital outputs and analogue RCA jacks. Denon’s industrial design team has struck the perfect balance between form and function, ensuring the Link HS2 complements both modern minimalist setups and classic wood‐grain HiFi racks.
Technology & Audio Performance
Under the hood, the HEOS Link HS2 delivers high-resolution audio streaming up to 24-bit/192 kHz (depending on source), with a frequency response spanning 10 Hz–100 kHz, an S/N ratio of 100 dB and total distortion of just 0.003% at 1 kHz. Whether you’re decoding lossless ALAC, WAV or FLAC files from a NAS, streaming TIDAL HiFi or a Spotify Connect playlist, the HS2 maintains bit-perfect playback with minimal jitter.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac) ensures stable high-speed connections—even in congested networks.
- Coaxial and optical digital outputs feed a dedicated DAC or AVR without compromising fidelity.
- Analogue stereo pre-amp outputs and sub-woofer out let you integrate with power amplifiers or active speakers.
- 12 V trigger output automates motorised screens, curtains or amps.
Streaming Ecosystem & Versatility
The HEOS ecosystem is one of the industry’s most mature multi-room platforms. Through the HEOS App (iOS/Android), you can:
- Stream from Spotify, TIDAL, Deezer, Napster, SoundCloud and more.
- Access thousands of internet radio stations and personal music libraries.
- Group zones for synchronized playback or assign independent sources per room.
- Connect Bluetooth devices directly as a HEOS zone with integrated Bluetooth® technology.
Need local storage? Simply plug a USB drive into the rear port. Prefer wired for ultra-low jitter? Use the Gigabit Ethernet connection. The HEOS Link HS2 adapts to your network and listening habits, offering unparalleled flexibility.
Who Should Consider the HEOS Link HS2?
If you already own a premium receiver, integrated amplifier or stereo pre-amp and crave high-res streaming without changing your core components, the HEOS Link HS2 is your perfect match. It’s equally suited to:
- HiFi enthusiasts wanting to network their turntable/DAC/amp combo.
- Home theatre aficionados seeking to add multi-room audio without rewiring.
- Design-conscious buyers who appreciate a compact, elegant streamer with robust connectivity.
Curious if the Link HS2 will integrate seamlessly with your system? Speak to our experts—give us a call on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to tailor a solution.
Pros & Cons
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Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality with ultra-low distortion and wide frequency response.
- Comprehensive I/O including analogue, digital and trigger outputs.
- Seamless HEOS multi-room integration with leading streaming services.
- Dual-band Wi-Fi plus Ethernet for reliable connectivity.
- Elegant, compact chassis with intuitive front-panel controls.
- High-resolution audio support up to 24-bit/192 kHz.
- 12 V trigger for home automation integration.
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Cons:
- No built-in display—control is entirely app-based.
- Phono pre-stage not included (requires separate phono preamp for turntables).
Elevate Your Home Audio with the HEOS Link HS2
If you’re ready to unleash the full potential of your stereo or home theatre system, the HEOS Link Wireless Multi-Room Audio Streamer is your gateway to pristine, networked hi-fi. From effortless setup to advanced streaming features and rock-solid performance, it’s the ideal upgrade for any serious audio setup. For personalised advice or to discuss custom multi-room configurations, don’t hesitate—contact our team at The Audio Tailor today on 1300 308 711 or sales@theaudiotailor.com.au. We’re here to help you craft the ultimate listening experience.