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The Cyrus 40 ST is a premium network music streamer that What Hi-Fi? named a 2025 Award winner. Its combination of precise, dynamic sound and broad streaming support makes it a serious high-end option, although the headline claim that this is its “third” What Hi-Fi? Award is not confirmed by the currently available award pages.
What the Cyrus 40 ST is
The 40 ST is Cyrus’s standalone network streamer: it receives music over a home network or supported streaming services and sends the signal to a separate amplifier and speakers. It is intended for a high-end hi-fi system rather than for casual listening through built-in speakers.
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What Hi-Fi? places it among the best music streamers it has tested and gave it a 2025 Award. The review describes it as an all-rounder that does not favour one musical style, so it can suit systems used for classical, jazz, rock, electronic and vocal recordings.
Why it won praise
What Hi-Fi? highlights a combination of clarity, precision, fine detail, dynamics and rhythmic security. The review says it is “dynamically… impressively expressive,” handling small changes in intensity elegantly while giving orchestral crescendos convincing scale. Its overall “blend of detail, dynamics and rhythmic security” is described as difficult to better at this price.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
That assessment matters because a streamer is not judged only by its list of services. Timing, low-level resolution and control determine whether a system sounds flat or engaging. The 40 ST’s reported strengths make it suitable for listeners who want a revealing presentation without a design tuned to only one genre.
Streaming services and connectivity
The streamer runs on the BluOS platform. Supported options listed for the 40 ST include:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
- AirPlay
- Tidal Connect
- Qobuz Connect
- Spotify Connect
- Internet radio
Qobuz and Spotify users can therefore start playback from their usual apps through the relevant Connect features, while BluOS provides the product’s broader control environment.
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Important omissions
What Hi-Fi? specifically notes that the 40 ST does not include Bluetooth or Chromecast support. That rules out quick direct playback from many phones, tablets and computers over Bluetooth, and it will not appear as a Chromecast target. Check those requirements before buying; adding an external adapter would add equipment and another conversion point to the system.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Resolution limit in the reviewed configuration
The review records support up to 24-bit/192kHz PCM in the tested configuration. That is sufficient for standard high-resolution downloads and streaming, but buyers with a library in a different format should verify compatibility with their files and preferred service before assuming every format will play natively.
Price and the optional power supply
What Hi-Fi? reviewed the Cyrus 40 ST at £2,995, $3,995 and AU$4,999. A May 2026 deal listing showed £2,649, reduced from £2,995; that is a reported promotional price, not a permanent international price. Retailer availability and prices vary by country, so treat those figures as dated reference points rather than a universal current cost.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Cyrus also offers the separate 40 PSU power supply for £2,495. What Hi-Fi? reports that the upgrade brings greater scale, power and authority. Because the supply costs almost as much as the streamer itself, it is best viewed as a system-matching upgrade for owners who already have high-quality amplification and speakers, not an automatic first purchase.
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How it compares with other premium streamers
What Hi-Fi? discusses the 40 ST alongside the Audiolab 9000N and Naim ND5 XS2. The practical choice comes down to sound, software and connections as much as price.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
| Buying factor | Cyrus 40 ST | Audiolab 9000N | Naim ND5 XS2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sound described in the cited review | Clear, precise, detailed, dynamic and rhythmically secure; strong across genres | Not stated in the available evidence | Not stated in the available evidence |
| Streaming platform or services | BluOS; AirPlay, Tidal Connect, Qobuz Connect, Spotify Connect and internet radio | Not stated | Not stated |
| Bluetooth | Not supported | Not stated | Not stated |
| Chromecast | Not supported | Not stated | Not stated |
| Reviewed/listed price | £2,995 / $3,995 / AU$4,999; £2,649 deal listing in May 2026 | Not stated | Not stated |
This is not a specification victory in every category. If Bluetooth or Chromecast is essential, the 40 ST is a poor fit regardless of its sound. If your priorities are a controlled, detailed presentation and BluOS service support, its strengths are more relevant than the missing wireless protocols.
Is the Cyrus 40 ST worth the money?
It makes the most sense for a listener who already owns, or plans to buy, a capable amplifier, speakers and network infrastructure. At this price, the streamer should be treated as one component in a balanced system: upgrading the weakest part may produce a larger audible improvement than adding the 40 PSU.
- Choose it if: you want a high-end streamer with BluOS, Qobuz Connect or Tidal Connect, and value detail, dynamics and timing.
- Think twice if: you need Bluetooth or Chromecast, rely on formats beyond the reviewed 24-bit/192kHz PCM limit, or are pairing it with entry-level amplification and speakers.
- Consider the 40 PSU later if: the rest of your system is already resolving enough to expose changes in scale and authority.
What is confirmed about the “third Award” claim?
The available What Hi-Fi? material confirms the Cyrus 40 ST as a new 2025 Award winner. A separate 2026 Cyrus overview says the 40 AMP, 40 CD and 40 ST won their respective categories. Those pages do not establish a three-award chronology for the 40 ST itself, so “third” should not be treated as verified without the specific What Hi-Fi? article or awards-archive entry.
The firm takeaway is narrower but still significant: the 40 ST has received a current What Hi-Fi? Award and has been positioned among the publication’s leading music streamers. Verify the exact award history and the latest local price before ordering.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
