Ferrum has launched the Ferrum BROEN, a network streaming transport built to deliver a clean and precise digital signal path while integrating tightly with the company’s award-winning WANDLA DACs and HYPSOS power management system. Rather than adding streaming capability to an existing design, the Polish brand has created a dedicated digital gateway that operates exclusively in the digital domain. It is available now, priced at €1995.
A digital-only architecture
At the heart of BROEN sits SERCE, Ferrum’s newly developed Digital to Digital Converter (DDC) module, engineered to optimise every stage of digital signal handling. By focusing purely on digital processing, SERCE delivers outstanding precision while maintaining complete separation between input and output domains. Galvanically isolated audio outputs and ultra-low jitter audio clocks preserve signal integrity throughout the entire playback chain – a philosophy Ferrum sums up as engineering to improve sound. The result is a transport designed to feed any high-quality DAC with the cleanest possible digital signal.
Modular networking
BROEN supports both wired and wireless networking. Conventional Wi-Fi is joined by a modular SFP port that accepts either a standard Ethernet module or an optical module, allowing a direct connection to compatible SFP network switches for reduced electrical noise and even cleaner digital transmission. An SFP module for a standard RJ45 Ethernet cable is supplied in the box, while the modular socket leaves room to upgrade network connectivity as a system evolves. Listeners who want to explore the benefits of optimised network playback – a topic we touched on in our Silent Angel Bremen SL1 Plus review – can tailor BROEN’s networking to their setup.
Ferrum BROEN and the WANDLA ecosystem
The Ferrum BROEN is designed around Ferrum Streaming Control Technology (FSCT), which enables seamless communication with the WANDLA range of flagship DACs. Connected via USB, the transport can be controlled directly from WANDLA’s touchscreen or the supplied remote control, with artist information, album details and playback status displayed on the DAC itself. Together, the two components behave as a fully integrated streaming DAC and preamplifier solution.
Performance can be taken a step further with the HYPSOS hybrid power management system. Linked via the proprietary Ferrum Power Link (FPL) with 4TSD voltage sensing, the two units communicate continuously to maximise electrical performance and unlock the highest possible level of musical performance.
Volumio streaming on board
BROEN runs the Volumio streaming platform, giving immediate access to an extensive range of music services straight out of the box. Support includes Spotify and Spotify Connect, TIDAL and TIDAL Connect, Qobuz and Qobuz Connect, AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA, internet radio, CD playback and multi-room playback, alongside AI-powered SuperSearch, Infinity Playback and enhanced album and artist metadata. Over-the-air firmware updates and a plugin-capable platform allow new functionality to be added over time, while an internal SSD slot provides additional storage flexibility for local music libraries.
Design and everyday use
The front panel has been developed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, providing intuitive day-to-day operation so listeners spend less time navigating menus and more time enjoying music. According to Ferrum, BROEN was created to challenge expectations of what a network streaming transport can be: a dedicated digital gateway that complements the rest of the Ferrum ecosystem while remaining flexible enough to integrate into a wide variety of premium hi-fi systems.
Pricing and availability
The Ferrum BROEN network streaming transport is available now, priced at £1995 / €1995 / $2275. Review samples are available on request.
Key specifications
- Product: Ferrum BROEN network streaming transport
- SERCE Digital to Digital Converter (DDC) module
- Ferrum Streaming Control Technology (FSCT) for WANDLA integration
- Ultra-low jitter audio clocks, galvanically isolated outputs
- Wi-Fi plus modular SFP Ethernet and optical networking (RJ45 module included)
- Powered by Volumio: Spotify, TIDAL, Qobuz (incl. Connect), AirPlay, UPnP/DLNA, internet radio, CD and multi-room playback
- Over-the-air updates, internal SSD expansion, plugin-capable platform
- Full compatibility with WANDLA and HYPSOS
- Price: £1995 / €1995 / $2275 – available now
