High-end network audio specialist LUMIN has introduced the S2, reviving its S-series music player lineup with technologies derived from the flagship X1. The new model combines dual ESS ES9038PRO DACs, Lundahl output transformers, and independently regulated analog and digital power supplies with LUMIN’s latest streaming platform. Most notably, the S2 is the company’s first network music player to incorporate external digital inputs, significantly expanding its role within a high-end audio system.
More than a successor to the original S1, the S2 combines the functionality of a premium network streamer and a standalone DAC. While previous LUMIN players primarily focused on network-based music playback, the S2 can also accommodate external CD transports and other digital sources through its newly introduced S/PDIF inputs.
Dual ES9038PRO DACs and Fully Balanced Output Stage
At the heart of the S2 is a dual-mono DAC architecture derived from LUMIN’s flagship X1. Two ESS ES9038PRO 32-bit, eight-channel DAC chips are employed, with one dedicated to each stereo channel to maintain independent digital-to-analog conversion paths.
The analog output stage also inherits key elements of the X1 design. A fully balanced dual-mono configuration incorporates Lundahl LL7401 output transformers, providing transformer-coupled signal transmission and electrical isolation. Dual femto clocks and an FPGA-based clock distribution system are used to manage timing accuracy throughout the digital processing circuitry.
Power is supplied by two toroidal transformers, adapting the X1’s power supply philosophy to a single-chassis design. Separate analog and digital supply paths, low-noise linear regulators, and internal shielding are employed to minimize unwanted electrical interaction between circuits.
According to LUMIN, these design choices are intended to preserve signal integrity and reduce interference throughout the conversion and analog output stages.
Digital Inputs Introduced to the LUMIN Platform
One of the most significant developments in the S2 is the addition of external digital inputs. Previous LUMIN network players were primarily designed to reproduce audio received through their integrated streaming platforms. The S2 introduces optical TOSLINK and coaxial RCA inputs, allowing compatible external digital sources to use its internal DAC and analog output circuitry.
Both inputs support PCM signals up to 24-bit/192kHz and DSD64 via DoP. This makes it possible to connect a CD transport or another compatible digital source and reproduce its output through the S2’s dual ES9038PRO conversion architecture.
The addition effectively expands the S2 beyond the role of a dedicated network streamer. Users who combine streaming services with physical digital media can integrate both sources into a single high-end playback system without requiring a separate DAC.
The USB connections, however, should not be confused with a conventional USB DAC input for a computer. They are intended for digital audio output to an external DAC and USB storage connectivity, rather than direct USB audio input from a Mac or Windows PC.
SFP Fibre Networking and Extensive Streaming Support
Network connectivity includes both Gigabit Ethernet through an RJ45 connection and an SFP fibre network interface. The SFP port allows the use of compatible optical networking modules, while LUMIN also supports configurations that make use of both network interfaces.
Optical networking can provide electrical isolation between compatible network devices, potentially reducing conductive noise paths. However, any audible benefit depends on the complete network and audio system configuration rather than the use of fibre connectivity alone.
The S2 supports a broad range of streaming platforms and playback technologies, including Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, UPnP/OpenHome, AirPlay, Audirvāna, and JPLAY.
Through the LUMIN app, users can access supported streaming services, internet radio, and music stored on network-connected libraries.
High-resolution network playback supports PCM up to 32-bit/384kHz and DSD512. The player also provides optional upsampling to PCM 384kHz or DSD256.
Volume control is handled by LUMIN’s implementation of Leedh Processing, a digital volume adjustment technology designed to minimize rounding errors and preserve signal accuracy during level changes.
Expanding the Role of the Network Music Player
The S2 occupies a distinctive position within LUMIN’s product range. Unlike the U-series network transports, which focus on digital output to external DACs, the S2 incorporates a premium DAC and fully balanced analog output stage. At the same time, its new digital inputs distinguish it from earlier LUMIN players designed primarily around network streaming.
By combining flagship-derived conversion circuitry with a modern streaming processor and broader digital connectivity, the S2 offers a more flexible foundation for systems incorporating streaming services, local music libraries, and traditional digital sources.
The design retains LUMIN’s understated aluminum enclosure, available in black anodized and natural silver finishes.
Specifications
| Specification | LUMIN S2 |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Network Music Player / DAC |
| DAC | 2 × ESS ES9038PRO |
| DAC Architecture | Fully Balanced Dual-Mono |
| Analog Output Stage | Lundahl LL7401 Transformers |
| Clock System | Dual Femto Clocks, FPGA Distribution |
| Network Playback | Up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD512 |
| Upsampling | PCM 384kHz / DSD256 |
| Digital Inputs | Coaxial RCA, Optical TOSLINK |
| Digital Input Resolution | Up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM, DoP64 |
| Digital Outputs | USB Audio, Coaxial, Optical |
| USB Audio Output | Up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM, DSD512 |
| Network Connectivity | Gigabit Ethernet, SFP Fibre |
| Streaming Support | Roon Ready, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect, UPnP/OpenHome and more |
| Analog Outputs | XLR 6Vrms, RCA 3Vrms |
| Volume Control | Leedh Processing |
| Power Supply | Dual Toroidal Transformers, Separate Analog/Digital Regulation |
| Dimensions (W×H×D) | 350 × 107 × 380mm |
| Weight | 8kg |
| Finishes | Black, Silver |
The LUMIN S2 is scheduled to become available in Japan on November 5, 2026, with a local retail price of ¥1,590,000, including tax. Availability and pricing in other markets will depend on regional distribution arrangements.
With the S2, LUMIN brings much of the X1’s flagship design philosophy into a network player with expanded digital connectivity. The combination of dual-mono DACs, Lundahl output transformers, SFP fibre networking, and newly introduced digital inputs reflects the company’s broader approach to integrating network streaming and traditional digital audio sources within a single high-performance component.
Source : LUMIN https://www.luminmusic.com/lumin-s2.html