The Prodigy X4:
From $4800 plus options
The Prodigy LE2
From $2500 plus options
Prodigy Series: Entry-Level Powerhouses Delivering Superior Digital Sound and 4K Video Performance
The Prodigy line has been Baetis Audio’s budget-conscious offering since 2016. Technological advances have narrowed the gap between our mid-range Revolution series and the Prodigy. The basic sound circuitry of the Reference and Revolution series, has trickled down to the Prodigy systems. Audiophile-grade wiring in the Prodigy X4 is similar to the Revolution X4 models. This allows the Prodigy daughterboard for the AES or SPDIF outputs to perform its magic better than most high end streamers offered by our rivals.
Once you hear the stunningly natural sound from the AES or SPDIF output (or take both as an option) of the prodigy X4 , you’ll forget you’re listening to a digital source. The warm musicality, and “live” feeling sound that gives us a sense of euphoria with the convenience of streaming or playing stored digital files – you can have it all.
Every unit is custom-made, and each customer talks with Joe Makkerh to determine the exact specs that will be most suitable for their needs.
For example, if your DAC has a better USB input, we can add options for the best USB outputs for your budget, including low-cost options. You can add an optional external optical drive for ripping CDs. The powerful multi-core AMD or Intel CPU easily handles Roon core functions as well as producing the exquisite Baetis source sound for your DAC. SSD storage is available as an option, up to 16TB internally.
We offer a choice of operating systems depending on your needs, and preferred method of controlling the system. The Prodigy series is available in silver or black. The smaller Prodigy LE2 offers only USB output in its base model, but can be adapted to add the AES output too. The Prodigy models can also be configured as a powerful Roon Core server and/or HQPlayer processor. Stack two Prodigy LE2s, for example, for a small footprint, cost-effective high-end sound; one unit as the Roon server and HQPlayer processor and the other acting as a simple Roon endpoint, dedicated to playing the pure stream it receives and nothing else.
Other customizations are also possible – talk to us!
What makes a Baetis Prodigy sound so good?
Here’s why
- Baetis Audio Proprietary Technology: Incorporates Prodigy series daughterboards and internal custom-made audiophile wiring, narrowing the gap to mid-range models.
- Roon Capabilities: Can function as either a Roon endpoint or a standalone Roon Core+Endpoint, or simply Roon Core for flexible streaming and playback options.
- Natural Sound Quality: Delivers warm, natural, and live-feeling sound through AES or SPDIF output, rivaling the best digital sources. Standard on Prodigy X4 and an option on Prodigy LE2
- Custom-Made Units: Each system is tailored to customer needs with specs determined through direct consultation.
- High-Quality USB Outputs: Audiophile USB ports add cost-effective, filtered USB outputs for superior DAC performance. Prodigy LE2 comes as a USB-only system as standard in base model
And…
- Enhanced Audio Fidelity: Good recordings sound even more alive, with palpable bass and clarity in details.
- Unrivalled Customisation: We love to hear about your bespoke needs – these often lead to ideal solutions for customers and increased functionality of our product. Joe Makkerh provides guidance on specifications for your individualised situation.
- Hand-built Systems: All units are currently made in Canada
- Component recommendations: We can provide compatible and great-performing components, such as DACs and cabling (and pretty much everything else!). We’ll do what we can to assist in setup remotely to integrate your Baetis-based solutions to maximise sound quality, simplify your systems and save you money
- USB Outputs: Choice of USB outputs (standard or optional, depending on model) for optimized performance with DACs.
- Massive Storage Options: Up to 16TB of solid-state storage, with more possible if needed.
- Easy Setup: Plug-and-play operation with guided audio output setup and DAC customization.
- Custom Support: Personalized setup calls and custom videos to assist with tasks like transferring a music collection.
- Upgradability: Units are upgradable, with options to add functionality or processing power, or trade in for a new build.
- Flexible Operating Interfaces and Platforms: Choice of interfaces based on user preferences for control.
- Aesthetic Options: Available in silver or black, with mid- and small-size case options.
- Industry leading customer support – We don’t rest until you’re fully satisfied. We’ll walk you through backing up, downloading, storing, and playing your music at the highest possible quality
Having now had some time to really listen to the Prodigy X from ripped CDs I am very familiar with, I can truly understand the efforts and dedication of John Mingo et al to develop and continue to enhance the Baetis line of media servers. The difference from my prior media server in playback through the same equipment and AES/EBU interface […] is very, very noticeable across the spectrum (pitch, timbre, air, bloom and decay) with layers of what I now realize must have been “background” noise from the prior media server’s standard interior PC motherboard, plug-in boards, drives and power supply no longer in evidence. And my previous media server purchased direct sells for the same price as the Prodigy X, but is really no comparison in fit, finish, graphics, transport, etc.”
