Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport | Volumio OS 4

Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport

High-End Digital Audio Streamer | Volumio OS 4 | SERCE DDC | FPGA Reclocking | Galvanically Isolated Outputs

The Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport is a high-performance digital audio streamer developed for audiophiles who want to connect modern streaming services, local music libraries and network audio sources to an external high-end DAC.

Powered by Volumio OS 4 and built around Ferrum’s dedicated SERCE Digital-to-Digital Conversion module, BROEN combines advanced streaming software, FPGA-based reclocking, galvanically isolated digital outputs and extensive connectivity in one specialist audio component.

Designed to integrate with Ferrum converters including WANDLA and ERCO Gen 2, while maintaining broad compatibility with third-party DACs, BROEN offers a flexible digital transport solution for demanding high-fidelity systems.

Available from Chameleon Audio, Ferrum BROEN brings together digital signal processing, network connectivity and modern streaming convenience in a compact premium chassis.

Ferrum BROEN: A Dedicated Digital Streaming Transport

The name BROEN means “bridge” in Danish, reflecting the product’s purpose as the connection between digital music sources and a high-performance digital-to-analogue converter.

Unlike an all-in-one network player with analogue outputs, BROEN is designed specifically as a digital audio transport.

It receives audio from streaming services, local storage or network libraries and delivers a digital signal to a compatible external DAC.

This separation allows users to select their preferred digital-to-analogue converter while benefiting from Ferrum’s specialised streaming and digital output architecture.

Made for Streaming with Volumio OS 4

The Ferrum BROEN Streamer runs a Ferrum-tailored version of Volumio OS 4, offering an extensive digital music ecosystem and intuitive playback control.

Volumio provides direct access to major music streaming services, network music libraries, local storage devices and internet radio.

Users can control playback through the Volumio interface on a smartphone, tablet or computer.

The BROEN-tailored Volumio platform is included without an additional subscription for the operating software itself. Streaming service subscriptions and individual third-party services may carry their own charges.

Ferrum SERCE DDC: Dedicated Digital Audio Processing

FPGA-Based Reclocking and Signal Isolation

At the centre of the Ferrum BROEN is the newly developed SERCE Digital-to-Digital Conversion module.

Rather than relying exclusively on the streaming processor to deliver digital audio, Ferrum separates the streaming and control domain from the dedicated digital output domain.

The SERCE module uses FPGA-based reclocking and carefully selected ultra-low-jitter audio clocks to manage the synchronous digital audio outputs.

Ferrum also incorporates galvanic isolation across the digital audio output architecture, including the dedicated USB DAC outputs.

This design aims to reduce the transfer of unwanted electrical noise from the streaming electronics into a connected DAC.

The overall result depends on the connected DAC, digital interface, system configuration and electrical environment.

Ultra-Low-Jitter Digital Clock Architecture

Accurate digital audio transmission requires carefully controlled timing, particularly when connecting a digital transport to an external converter through synchronous digital interfaces.

BROEN employs ultra-low-jitter audio clocks within its SERCE digital output architecture.

The synchronous outputs benefiting from the internal clocking arrangement include:

• AES/EBU digital output
• Coaxial S/PDIF digital output
• Optical S/PDIF digital output
• I2S digital output

These interfaces allow the user to select an appropriate connection for the receiving DAC.

Galvanically Isolated Digital Audio Outputs

Ferrum places the audio outputs behind a galvanic isolation barrier to help control electrical noise transmission between the streaming platform and downstream digital components.

This includes both the synchronous digital outputs and the dedicated USB DAC outputs.

The architecture is especially relevant in complex systems containing network switches, computers, routers, multiple power supplies and sensitive digital-to-analogue converters.

Ferrum Streaming Control Technology (FSCT)

The Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport supports Ferrum Streaming Control Technology, or FSCT.

FSCT enables integration with compatible Ferrum converters, including WANDLA and ERCO Gen 2.

When BROEN is connected to a compatible Ferrum DAC, information such as the artist and track title can be displayed on the converter’s screen.

Playback functions can also be controlled using the compatible Ferrum touchscreen or remote control.

This integration creates a convenient digital front end while preserving the dedicated hardware roles of the streaming transport and DAC.

Designed for Ferrum WANDLA

Ferrum developed BROEN to work particularly closely with its WANDLA DAC family.

The combination of BROEN’s streaming platform, dedicated digital output stage and WANDLA’s conversion circuitry creates a coordinated Ferrum digital source system.

However, BROEN is not restricted to Ferrum DACs. It can be connected to compatible third-party DACs through its available digital audio outputs.

Upgrade BROEN with Ferrum HYPSOS

BROEN is supplied as a complete streaming transport with its standard power arrangement.

For users seeking additional system configuration options, Ferrum provides compatibility with its HYPSOS Hybrid Power System.

The connection uses Ferrum Power Link, the manufacturer’s proprietary power interface.

HYPSOS incorporates Ferrum’s 4TSD voltage-sensing technology, designed to regulate supply voltage at the connected component.

A compatible HYPSOS configuration can also be used within a broader Ferrum digital system.

The appropriate power supply configuration and Ferrum Power Link cable should be confirmed before purchase.

Dual-Band Wi-Fi and SFP Network Connectivity

The Ferrum BROEN Streamer provides both wireless and wired networking options.

Dual-band Wi-Fi supports 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks, making it possible to connect to a compatible home network without a physical Ethernet cable.

For wired networking, BROEN includes a modular SFP socket.

An RJ45 Ethernet SFP module is included, allowing a conventional wired network connection.

Users with suitable optical networking equipment can install a compatible optical SFP module, sold separately.

Optical network connectivity can provide electrical isolation between suitably configured network devices.

Internal M.2 NVMe SSD Storage

BROEN offers an internal M.2 NVMe SSD slot for storing a local digital music library inside the streaming transport.

The manufacturer’s published compatibility includes supported 80mm and 110mm M.2 NVMe drive formats.

The SSD is supplied separately by the user and is not included as standard.

For users with large music collections, local storage can provide a convenient alternative to maintaining an external USB drive or a continuously operating NAS.

Extensive Digital Audio Outputs

Ferrum BROEN provides multiple dedicated digital audio interfaces for connection to compatible DACs.

• AES/EBU: Balanced digital output via XLR
• Coaxial S/PDIF: Digital output via RCA
• Optical S/PDIF: Toslink digital output
• I2S: HDMI-style digital audio connection with configurable pinout
• USB DAC: Dedicated Type-A output
• USB DAC: Dedicated Type-C output

A separate HDMI video output is also provided for an external screen and Volumio system display.

Important: The HDMI I2S audio connection is not equivalent to the HDMI video output. I2S compatibility and pin assignment must be confirmed with the receiving DAC.

Ferrum BROEN and Roon

The Ferrum BROEN platform offers access to additional functionality through the Volumio plug-in ecosystem, including a Roon Bridge option.

This may allow integration into a Roon-based playback system through compatible software configuration.

Roon Bridge functionality should not be confused with independent Roon Ready certification.

Users should verify the current software, plug-in and compatibility requirements for their intended Roon setup.

Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect

With Volumio OS 4, BROEN supports popular streaming services and their associated Connect playback methods.

These include Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect.

Additional playback options include AirPlay via Shairport Sync, UPnP/DLNA rendering, Bluetooth A2DP and integrated web radio directories.

Supported services and functions may be subject to the current firmware, application and service subscription requirements.

Local Music, NAS and CD Playback

In addition to internet streaming, Ferrum BROEN can access locally stored audio files through several methods.

Music can be played from compatible USB storage devices, the optional internal SSD or accessible network libraries.

The Volumio platform also supports compatible CD playback and ripping workflows using appropriate external hardware.

Supported audio formats include MP3, WMA, AAC, ALAC, FLAC, APE, WAV and DSD.

Multi-Room and Advanced Playback Features

Ferrum’s Volumio-based software environment includes multi-room playback support for up to six synchronised zones.

Additional features include AI-powered SuperSearch, Infinity Playback, expanded album and artist metadata, internet radio, alarm functions and multi-language support.

Over-the-air firmware updates and access to the Volumio plug-in store provide ongoing software flexibility.

Ferrum BROEN Key Features

• High-end dedicated network streaming transport
• Powered by Volumio OS 4
• Ferrum SERCE Digital-to-Digital Conversion module
• FPGA-based reclocking
• Ultra-low-jitter clocks for synchronous audio outputs
• Galvanic isolation across digital audio outputs
• Ferrum Streaming Control Technology (FSCT)
• Integration with compatible WANDLA and ERCO Gen 2 converters
• Ferrum Power Link connection for compatible HYPSOS configurations
• Spotify, TIDAL and Qobuz Connect support
• AirPlay and UPnP/DLNA support
• Bluetooth A2DP playback
• Roon Bridge option through compatible Volumio plug-in
• AES/EBU, coaxial, optical and I2S digital outputs
• Dedicated USB Type-A and USB Type-C DAC outputs
• HDMI video output for external display
• Dual-band Wi-Fi
• Modular SFP network connection
• RJ45 Ethernet SFP module included
• Optional optical SFP networking
• Internal M.2 NVMe SSD slot
• USB storage and NAS playback
• Up to six synchronised multi-room zones
• Trigger input and output
• Over-the-air firmware updates

Ferrum BROEN Technical Specifications

Why Buy from Chameleon Audio?

At Chameleon Audio, we specialise in high-end digital audio systems, network streaming, digital-to-analogue converters and carefully selected audio components.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ferrum BROEN?

The Ferrum BROEN is a dedicated high-end digital network streaming transport powered by Volumio OS 4 and equipped with Ferrum’s SERCE DDC output technology.

Does the Ferrum BROEN have a built-in DAC?

No. BROEN is a digital-only streaming transport and requires a compatible external DAC for analogue audio output.

Does BROEN support TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect?

Yes. Ferrum lists TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect and Spotify Connect among the supported streaming functions.

Does Ferrum BROEN work with Roon?

The Volumio platform offers a Roon Bridge plug-in option. Current software compatibility should be checked before purchase. This does not by itself establish Roon Ready certification.

Can I connect BROEN to a non-Ferrum DAC?

Yes. BROEN provides multiple digital audio outputs for compatible DACs from a wide range of manufacturers.

What is SERCE DDC?

SERCE is Ferrum’s dedicated digital-to-digital processing module featuring FPGA-based reclocking and a separate output processing domain.

Are the USB DAC outputs galvanically isolated?

Yes. Ferrum specifies galvanic isolation across the digital audio outputs, including dedicated USB DAC outputs.

Does BROEN support optical Ethernet networking?

Yes. Its modular SFP interface supports compatible optical network modules. The optical module is optional and not included as standard.

Is an Ethernet connection included?

Yes. An RJ45 Ethernet SFP module is included for conventional wired networking.

Can I install an internal SSD?

Yes. BROEN includes an internal M.2 NVMe SSD slot for compatible 80mm and 110mm drives. The SSD is not included.

Can I use Ferrum HYPSOS with BROEN?

Yes. BROEN supports compatible HYPSOS power supply configurations through Ferrum Power Link.

Can I connect BROEN through I2S?

Yes. BROEN provides an HDMI-style I2S digital audio output with configurable pin assignment. Compatibility with the receiving DAC must be verified.

Does BROEN support USB DAC output?

Yes. Dedicated USB Type-A and Type-C DAC outputs are provided.

Can I control BROEN from a smartphone?

Yes. Playback can be controlled through the Volumio interface using a compatible iOS or Android device or a web browser.

What is Ferrum Streaming Control Technology?

FSCT enables additional integration between BROEN and compatible Ferrum DACs, including playback control and track information display.

Where can I buy the Ferrum BROEN Streamer?

Ferrum BROEN is available through Chameleon Audio, with advice on DAC compatibility, digital audio connectivity and complete high-end streaming systems.

Build Your Ferrum Digital System

Pair the Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport with the Ferrum WANDLA DAC for an integrated Ferrum digital source solution.

For power supply upgrade options, explore the Ferrum HYPSOS Hybrid Power System.

For official product documentation and updated technical information, visit the Ferrum BROEN Official Manufacturer Page.

Ferrum BROEN at Chameleon Audio

The Ferrum BROEN Network Streaming Transport combines Volumio OS 4, SERCE digital processing, low-jitter clocking, galvanically isolated audio outputs and comprehensive streaming connectivity in one specialised component.

Whether connected to a Ferrum WANDLA or another compatible high-end DAC, BROEN provides a flexible digital source platform for streaming services, network libraries and local audio collections.

Contact Chameleon Audio for Ferrum BROEN availability, DAC matching, connectivity advice and international delivery.