I noticed the same price between the Aries and the Altair and had a hard time getting some clarity on the differences. Thank you for covering this! You are right up there with Andrew Robinson and Kristi in terms of production quality, review technique, verbal delivery. Much love and respect. Keep up the great work! ❤
I love the new format of your review videos… very entertaining, as I enjoy the mention of other products and conepts throughout. And AURALiC is hard to beat in sound quality. I have been using their G1, G1.1 and G2.1 product itterations for years. I think AURALiC is somewhat of a hidden gem of a brand.
I couldn’t agree more! This is a really underrated component. I remember seeing the G1 when I started my journey… hugely expensive and without even a DAC! I moved away from the integrated DAC on my (old) Hegel H120 with a Pontus 2 - the result was immediate, and there was no going back. After awhile I started getting curious about transports, and tried Roon. After demoing a top-end SoTM streamer vs. the BlueSound Node 2, I bought one, complete with a dedicated PSU. Running it as a Roon endpoint, the gains were almost (if not as big) as adding the DAC itself. Upon doing home comparisons, the BlueSound suddenly became hard to listen to. Another interesting thing to note - I tried the Hegel H120 (75W) to the H190 (150W) wth this setup. The H120 is very capable, but when you get better sources, better DACs, you need the extra power to really display all of the details. The H190 was far more engaging to listen to, and everything seems more real. My next stop would be to get separate power/pre, but for the moment I am very satisfied with this. I am definitely extracting the best out of my Totem speakers.
Very grateful for these comparisons. Especially since you’re accounting based on your own personal upgrade experience with separate components, combinations, integration etc. It’s really helped to inform my own path! I’ve opted for the rpi platform route, now moved to the Pi2Design Mercury streamer (from an Allo board transport). It was a profound improvement. Other Reviewers already touting it besting the ifi zen stream by a large margin. Albeit fidgety, be curious to see how it might compare against the Auralic offerings.
Another nice one Tarun, I've had a couple of surprising results when changing things in my setup and changed my mind about what is important. First was a speaker cable change, I wasn't expecting any audible change but was really shocked at the difference with the new cables. It pointed out to me that my old cables were really holding back some of the sound quality in the system. Next was going from a 120W solid-state amp to 600W Monoblocks, this sounded like I had bought new speakers, they really woke up and performed on a new level. Last was going from a $2k DAC to a $14k, this showed me the improvement isn't as great as the price tag. I did a number of in-home trials with the Hugo TT2, Holo Spring 3 and finally decided the Weiss 502 was the best. But it's still debatable whether these high-end products are worth their price tags.
In my opinion, the best hi-fi reviews. Professional, informative with great tech detail but also low key. A streamer I had been looking at but I guess not close enough to pay attention to find out it does not support a Windows/Android app. Deal breaker for me unfortunately. Keep up the great work!
You can use Android and Windows apps that work with the OpenHome streaming protocol as a remote control, and you can access the settings menu from a browser. Their own app is apple only, it's the slickest user interface but not essential.
Hi Tarun, I think you reviews and insights into audio components are fabulous! Like any review, we all different reference systems we compare products too and brands we are biased towards! I for one worship anything designed by Nelson Pass and are a massive fan of the complete Rega Range! And in a complete opposite think Linn products are over priced! Audio is all personal taste!! So keep up the great work mate!
My biggest surprise came unexpectedly, and recently. I have a Luxman 590AXII integrated amp with a good quality Chinese (Consonance Reference 8, 25th anniversary) streamer/DAC. I was looking to go to a very high level DAC. I auditioned a Mola Mola Tambaqui and was very impressed. The dealer offered me a very good deal on the Mola Mola Makua preamp with the Tambaqui included (and also included the phono stage). I could not refuse the offer and brought the unit home. The Tambaqui is a Roon endpoint but I could also use the streamer from my old Consonance unit into the USB input. It was no surprise the Tambaqui as a Roon endpoint sounded better than the Consonance unit. It was also better than using the Consonance as a streamer. The surprise was the improvement in sound quality the Makua preamp provided (connected into the Luxman integrated which is now just being used just as a power amp) - even with the old Consonance DAC it sounded substantially better. Luxman's integrated pre-amp was no slouch, but the Makua tightened the bass and widened the soundstage considerably. Surprise number 2 was the improvement of the Makua's phono stage which replaced a Dynavector P75 MkIII. It was a bigger difference than the DAC. Mola Mola is now about to release the phono stage in a separate box as the Lupe Phono Stage. I am not sure of the price but it performs at a high level. Always nice to have such good surprises.
Hi Tarun. Nice work. I own an Auralic Aries G2.1 as my main streamer. I think it should be noted that if you don’t have an iOS device you can still use Lightning DS by entering your Auralic’s IP address into the URL bar of your browser. To make things easier you can bind the IP address using your router so you can save a shortcut to your Aries on your desktop or phone screen.
Thanks for that info RJ. I don't own any Auralic equipment but when Tarun mentioned the app issue, I was certainly put off, as I don't and won't own an iPhone/iPad.
Absolutely this. I bought an old ipad to run their lightening software, so i thought id run roon on it too. I wish I hadnt of bothered as its completely not needed fir a roon user, and roon app on ios crashes constantly, but hardly ever does on android. Simply typing the units ip address into any browser lets you access all the functions you might want to play with on the unit in a much more accessible way. If you are a roon user, you dont need an apple device to run this unit at all, I wasted my money, lol 😂
@@titntin5178 Similar to you, despite my aversion to all things Apple, I bought a cheap second hand iPad for my Aries G2, then discovered Roon. Now I control the system with a lovely Samsung Galaxy S8 ultra with its gorgeous 14.6" screen.
Hi Tarun, I also bit the bullet and bought Aires G1.1. I must say it is truly an amazing piece of gear. As you say, it has to be partnered with quality gear to be appreciated. I was hesitant to jump in the streaming universe, but I am glad I did. Keep up the good work, I truly enjoy your videos.
Hi Tarun, great video. I can’t understand why anyone who loves digital wouldn’t want a dedicated streamer, so, like you, I’m not surprised this streamer is a great piece. On surprises, I have two, both nerdy! The first was replacing the standard opamps in my CD player with those Burson Audio V6 Vivids you showed. The second was fitting RC snubbers across the bridge rectifiers in my Musical Fidelity dual mono amp. Components like this really matter, in my experience and for those with a little skill with a soldering iron, the world of upgrading can be a much cheaper and more satisfying place.
Venus 2 is a great choice! Have had this running for around 12 months feeding my vintage NAD 3020 (new in 1982, recapped in 2020) and recently installed NAD C 298.
Good to hear your enjoying the system upgrade. I have one of these as well and am really enjoying it. It replaced a Cambridge Audio CXN v2 that was nice had onboard dac section. This really was a decent step up though and i sold the CXN on straight away. Great review and loving the channel!
I'm surprised that reviewers haven't spent any time talking about WiFi vs. Ethernet connectivity, particularly since Auralic has a unique point of view on this subject (i.e., that WiFi is better). Has anyone here tested that thesis with the G1 or G1.1? If so, what was your upstream equipment?
Thanks for your perspective, Tarun. I have the Venus II too, and feed it with a Lumin U2 Mini with SBooster … I came from the ifi Zen Stream/Pontus, so the difference was definitely audible. After it all, the convenience and sound from the dedicated Lumin app made it worth it. It’s not night and day, but it’s better, cleaner, easier.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I have to say that I subscribed to the notion that a streamer just passes the signal. And maybe that’s all it does, but then couple that with better processing power, better power supply, better integration of app … those elements might be the difference I am hearing. And if so, I’m ok with that. Incremental improvements, for sure. The reasons that make for those improvements aren’t so important to me.
Hi Tarun, I am not an expert in digital audio, so this was a great video to get some understanding what a streamer can do. It also underlines the old audio wisdom that less is often more. I have had a few surprises over the years but one of my second audio journey was to find out how the automatic turntable Dual 1019 from the mid late 60's that has been build with audiophile intention but is flawed on many levels is so addictive. I have done so many A / B tests (I own more than 10 turntables) against the Dual 1019 (and Dual 1009) and have no problems finding a turntable that objectively sounds better. But in the end I still prefer to listen to the Dual when it comes to enjoying music. Perhaps it is psycho acoustics and if that is so, then so be it. In any case, back in the day, Dual claimed that they have put all their knowledge in this product. I think they where actually telling the truth on that occasion.
Another nice post Tarun, thanks for them all. My two unexpected surprises were adding a better powercord to a linear power supply connected to a cisco switch and adding a cleansweep in between my mains wall socket and stereosystem.
Tarun, I too have found the power supply to be the weakest link - a friend of mine has a Topping DAC that didn't come with a PS. He hooked up a SMPS with disastrous results - its HF noise aliased down into the audio band. I ended up modifying its cable with two ferrite Baluns to suppress the common mode noise then filtered the remaining ripple with an RC Pi filter matched to the Topping's load impedance. We were rewarded with a dead silent noise floor. I used the same technique with my Meridian Explorer II DAC with its supplied Meridian SMPS with like results.
Great review. I have an Auralic Aries (original) with the ultra quiet power supply. I was surprised that Auralic recommends a wireless connection for their products, but it has worked great ever since I’ve had it. Once and a while it will go silent, but has always snapped back in less than a minute. I like the Auralic products, but they don’t always align perfectly with what others offer on the market.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 It is a great review because he organizes the information so well and because he offers reasoned judgments as to quality of build (with comparisons), sound quality (his descriptions are masterful, and he cross-references his terms to terms that others might use to describe the same phenomena he is hearing. And finally, I think he DOES do a great job of giving you an idea of what value you should get for your money; he is at pains to describe the equipment that would partner well with the item under review. The $2,500 streamer isn’t going to lift an amp + DAC + speaker combo at $1,500; but it WILL offer a step up to a system with $3,000 to $5,000 struggling with a Blue Sound node 2i or similar. At least that is what I heard; I don’t spend too much time with the Cheap Audio folks; I want to improve my system. Do your reviews the way you want to do them, I find value in them too; but don’t criticize someone just because they don’t think or talk like you. As my grandmother would say, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.”
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I do like your reviews and find your opinions informative, but with all the comments you are making on this video it seems like you have a bone to pick with either Tarun or Auralic.
Ding ding, time out methinks. Respect you both for what you have done and the sacrifices you endure to bring this content for the enjoyment of others, being able to sample equipment that most of your audience would love to hear and experience. Some products are severely overpriced, dare I mention Roon nucleus? With the ares it is also usability and features such as lightning that add to the cost. Using it as purely a Roon endpoint would be a waste to my mind. Knowing if you had x amount to spend and where to spend that money to get the best outcome is so full of variables you could only get an indication, and that is what you content providers give us. Bear in mind that most who view content also don’t have the first idea of what’s involved behind the scenes, but like all industries, it won’t be a bed of roses. In hifi it’s always been the same, old enough to recall the attitudes between rival hifi magazines, linn and roksan, linn and naim and many many others. Hifi shows aren’t as bad now but pistols at dawn have been known! You are both capable of excellent content and have different ideas of how to get messages across.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I think you really need to pay more attention to what he is saying: both the DAC and the streamer offered similar improvements which he described as clarity and density without a change in tonality. So he’s telling you what to expect and we’ll as what not to expect. Again, you do your reviews and let Taurn do Taurn and you do you; but please stop criticizing Taurn for not being you. My last response on this topic. You’re spoiling my experience of a great review.
Hi Jeremiah, thank you for your kind words. In this review, I wanted to place a bit more emphasis on my personal hifi journey. In the context of my reference system: Auralic Aries Mini / Denafrips Venus II / Exposure XXI & XVIII / ProAc Response 1SCs, an upgrade to the digital transport is what I would consider next. I could have made more comparisons such with the Primare CD15 Prisma (which has exactly the same steaming module as the NP5 built-in) but the video was long enough already. It is not just the sound quality improvement of the Auralic Aries G1.1 that impresses, outperforming the CD15 Prisma, the build, display and user interface are much better too. Hence, worthy of my Outstanding award. The less formulaic, more personally reflective nature of this review meant it wasn’t so heavily comparison based. Hopefully, viewers gained a greater sense of what it was like to be there with me and experience the product. Thank you for your support, once again 😊👍
Hi Tarun, my system consists of the components you like. Namely, Auralic Aries G1 (noted not 1.1 but very similar), Venus 2, ATC SCM19s (passive) and Rel T/7X. Regarding the SCM19s, I am powering that with Kinki Studio EX-M1 integrated amp (215WPC). The amp has unrivalled dynamics and has more than enough to drive the 19s with ease. I’m also using Denafrips Gaia DDC which I thoroughly recommend, it gives the soundstage additional dimensionality and the different it made is beyond comprehension. As always, excellent no BS review. Keep up the great work! 👍
A nice review Tarun, very informative. I was chewing the cud thinking about this streamer. Currently have the Node 2i that has been pimped to run off and Sbooster linear power supply to good effect. Will get a home demo now based on your review. Recently acquired a H590 looking for a front end to do it justice
Would love to see you review the Eversolo DMP-A6 as a streaming transport and compare directly versus these $2k+ transports like the Aries G1.1, Lumin, Innuos, etc. I’ve been reading more and more people saying the Eversolo delivers equal or better sound quality at half the price
Hi Tarun, Another wonderful video. You are one of the very few reviewers of audio equipment I actually trust. Your reviews are balanced, and uncolored. I really love that about your videos. I have decided, in consideration of your advise, not to get another Adcom 555 to be used as mono-blocks. It would be way too much for my listening room. As far as the streamer... I recently built a new media server to store not only music, but also music videos and television series. It utilizes a very good separate sound-card featuring 32bit / 384khz and I have 12tb of storage.... Also, I love your sweater you are wearing. That looks amazing on you. Do you remember where you got it, as I would love to get one for my husband. 😊
Thank you AP. Much appreciated. I bet building that music server was a fun project. Very impressive. The jumper is by a brand named Kensington, Est. 1927. Here is a link to a retailer. I hope hubby likes it 😊👍 www.dv8fashion.com/en/Kensington-Knitwear/bc-1153-431.aspx?SortBy=newestdesc
@@jimfarrell4635 That is kind of you to say, Thank you! 😊 I'm a foreign language teacher and deal with teenagers all day. Here, you learn a few things about diplomacy. 😂 The gentleman in the classroom across from me is a former Army drill Sargent; his approach is typically a bit louder, and much more direct than mine. 😉
@@AgentPepsi1 Hi AP and Jim, I have deleted Simon’s (13th Note) comment. I do not permit people to criticise my viewers. Simon should know better and if he continues I will block him. Please accept my apologies that you had to put up with it.
Interesting - some weeks ago I did an “Aurelic Streamer shootout” at home with some borrowed devices: The Aries Mini with LPS, the 2015 Aries Femto (with LPS as well), the Aries G1 and Aries G1.1. All four streaming via USB, partly also tried AES-EBU or Coax SPDIF into the Venus II. Result for me: G1 and G1.1 were indistinguishable for me, Aries MINI + LPS a little behind - but not by very far. I settled on the Aries Femto now for, streaming via USB into the Venus II. Got a ~130$/EUR/GBP SUPRA USB cable to avoid any doubts about interconnect issues.
Thanks Tarun I’m in the process of looking for a streamer to accompany my PSA DSD dac. There’s certainly a few out there & some brands I’ve never heard of before, when you look inside they all do seem a little bare with some just what looks like a raspberry pi board in a fancy box. The better or more expensive ones do seem to have a better linear power supply inside. My conundrum is finding one with i2s & AirPlay. I2s seems to be slowly gaining adoption which is why I’m holding back for the moment although the lumin mini has me tempted it’s just the lack of i2s which stops me. Keep up the good work & ignore the comments of another channel we trust your integrity 👍🏻
Thank you my friend. Much appreciated. Not many streamers have I2S, I suspect they are optimised for an asynchronous transfer via USB. The Aries G1.1 sounds better through USB rather than SPDIF 😊👍
Hello, my biggest surprise was the tube amp, specifically the Cayin cs55a, which is entry level. Greetings from A Coruña, Galicia, Spain, thanks for the videos.
Type the units ip address into any browser. Never need to use the tiny writting on screen again. Amazing how few users seem to know about this, and a big rebuke to auralic for their confused documentation which is pretty poor and a major reason people struggle with the silly screen and knob when they could be relax8ng 8n their listening position with a tablet or phone adjusting the unit.
Excellent review Tarun. I've been eyeing an Aries G1.1 for months now. Currently using a ESolo DMP-A8 as a streamer to a Pontus 2/12th into an Athena preamp driving a Parasound JC5. Cornwall 4s and also Martin Logan XT Motion F200. I believe from your review my system would benefit fro the Aries G1.1. I am eyeing a used Innuos mini Mk3 with the optional linear power supply as well. Thank you again for the superb review.
Just had the Eversolo A8 on demo, can’t get to grips with the app, I have an Auralic vega g1 & find the simplicity of the auralic app so good. Interesting your take if you do purchase the Aries compared to the Eversolo
Sounds like a nice addition to your setup Tarun. My biggest surprise on my audiophile journey is how my 20 year old speakers are still relevant today and consistently outperform many upgrade candidates in the price range and sometimes above. I would need to spend silly money to step change the performance. I am sure you and your ProAc Response 1SCs can empathize? Why do you think this is the case?
Thank you for sharing. I think speaker design is part science and part art. Those gems of the past where they nailed it still sound amazing today. Material science may have progressed but so has parts cost 👍
Reviewers generally avoid comparing streamers. This is crazy. Your descriptions of the various upgrades and how they might fit into someone's system are excellent. As usual. Biggest eye opening upgrade? Bypassing the Oppo 205 DAC in favor of the Aries 2.
I've used an Aries G1 for a few years now, it is one of my most satisfying hi-fi purchases ever, even though it is one of the least expensive major components of my system. The Bluesound Node (latest version), wiim mini and a Yamaha streamer, used as transports didn't really sound better than an Android phone running the UAPP app. The Primare NP5 is a step up from those, but the Auralic is the only one that has made Qobuz or Tidal as satisfying as LPs and CDs in my system. I'm sure that there are some hair-shirt alternatives that sound just as good for less, but the nice case and great app add a lot of value for me.
I’m with you on this, I bought an Aries and despite it seemingly not doing much, I get the most pleasure from it. The build, look, app, functionality all add up to a package that despite the high price make me feel happy to use/own. It’s the one component I’m never looking at upgrade options, therefore it’s good value!
@@Benvos it should also be said that the firmware updates from Auralic have genuinely improved the Aries' functionality over time, with adding streaming services and features such as the recent upgrade to AirPlay2. I have had the Primare NP5 nearly as long, and that company is not in the same league when it comes to software. Yamaha seemed to give up on their device after a couple of years, their app was woeful.
Hi Me, I agree with you. The sound quality, build, display, app, user interface all are important in accessing the value of this brand. Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
With vinyl the aim is to ensure isolation to get the best out of the source. For digital in the ‘it’s only 1s and 0s and the world is made of snake oil’ the two surprise highlights for me were adding an English electric 8 switch and ENO filter. I guess this is the digital equivalent of isolation. I was already getting a good sound but with these in the chain vocals improved significantly and bass was a shock, far deeper with defined transients. There are times I hate this hobby, there is always something better, but even if there is it is probably thousands and may not suit your system! And your system has to be capable of showing that improvement, something you highlighted very well in your review
Good watch, thank you. Im now using an altair g1 myself and enjoying it very much, the auralic units seem to have the characteristics I value, and have roon compliance and the ability to set the screen to go dark (horray!) Having gone all futurefi and loving a naim atom for a while, i couldnt help myself and beefed up the amplification a bit with a Naim NAP250dr. After that the amp in the Atom seemed superfluous, so I swapped it out for the Altair G1. No doubt a dac will follow as I work backwards again from my all in one 😀 Once an audiophile, always... P. S. You can edit all of the configuration settings directly from any browser as your machine is available as an ip address on your network. I use an android tablet. Adjusting many of these settings, like the equalser or speaker balance, whilst sitting and listening is essential, and I find it preferable than using the screen input, which is small and requires glasses for these old eyes!
Thanks for the great review. I've decided it's time to upgrade the 17 yo Benchmark DAC1. I use the Bluesound Node 2i as a streamer; not using its DAC - the Benchmark is (still) better. I looked at the Hegel 190 and was unimpressed with the DAC. So have been contemplating something a bit bigger (a new streamer and a new DAC). I recently auditioned the (superseded) Auralic Altair G1. And was a bit underwhelmed. So will re-look to the Aries (with SSD) and do the DAC later. Interestingly there was a significant and audible difference between Tidal and Qobuz - which I've experienced in my own system at home (Qobuz being my preference). I'll keep auditioning (and saving) - I can see this won't be an easy or cheap process. So I'm focusing on power conditioning and isolation (room and equip) at home while auditioning the streamer and DAC options. Have you auditioned the Lab12 DAC 1? I was impressed. Thoughts on Mytek Brooklyn Bridge? (they're hard to find here)
You wondered what the two separate transformers in the power supply are used for. According to the Hifi News review of the Aries G2.1 'Meanwhile, dual 'Purer-Power' linear power supplies are employed, one for the processor, display and storage, and the other for the unit's clocks and USB output'. I originally bought an Auralic Vega G2.1 DAC, which includes an inbuilt streamer. I was very impressed by the standard of streamed audio that this produced, but my dealer loaned me an Aries G2.1 to see if I thought it worth the extra money. I was astonished by the improvement in imaging and leading edge definition that the separate streamer provided. I guess that as you say, freeing the Vega's power supply to only concentrate on the DAC function is responsible for the majority of the gains. I did buy the Aries. My criticism of the Auralic range is that if you go for the full equipment stack, there is a substantial amount of duplication of function. If Auralic produced a DAC which consisted only of the DAC section of the Vega it would not need to contain a streamer or a variable output, and therefore would be substantially cheaper. My next purchase will possibly be the Sirius upsampler, which gets very good reviews, but is a costly unit. Hopefully I will be able to afford one within the next year. One more comment - I find that anything that reduces electrical noise make a real difference to high-quality streaming. I bought an Ifi iPurifier which sits between my Auralic components and a couple of components with switch mode power supplies in my mains block. I also bought two Chord Groundarays which I plugged into my Vega and my Aries. Both of these additions improved sound quality substantially.
Excellent review. I have concluded that I've neglected my sources. I did upgrade to a Pontus II and added a LPS to my Node but I am sniffing around at better steamer. I sure would like it if you got your hand on a Lumin U2 mini streamer. Supposedly good, $1000 less but no Wifi. I read that the Audalic people have put special emphasis on the wifi input vs Cable. Funny how things go around, in the paleo rock days The Brits were telling everyone their first move should be to get the best source (turntable and cartridge) they could afford because the preamp passes it on to the amp that drives the speakers so it was the old story of garbage in and garbage out. Your modest speakers would sound a lot better if properly fed. Simpler back then, no digital just Linn LP12, Pink Triangle, Rega, Michele etc.
Despite some of the “rude “ comments below, I would be interested in a review of taking a low cost streamer in a good ecosystem (e.g. Sonos port) feeding it to an ifi ipure 2 to clean up any jitter and power issues, feeding a higher quality dac, such as a Denefrips. Does the “bit” streamer really matter, or are audio differences driven mostly by the DAC after the signal is cleaned up. At any rate, it would help put some of the endless debate about such things to rest. Oh wait, this is audio, nothing will put the endless debates to rest!
Hi Tarun, see from website: "Processing and display power is completely separated from sensitive audio components that operate on their own dedicated supply". one PS is for digital processing and display, second PS is for audio streaming chips only...
My surprise was also replacing, separation and improvement of regulated linear power supplies of my modem/router, (separate!) switch, Raspberry Pi, Pi2AES hat, digital part of my R2R ladder DAC board, analog stage of my R2R ladder DAC board, especially using LT3042 LDO’s behind cheap Chinese oversized Jung Super Regulator boards. (so six transformers and psu-board).
Another fine review. As there are many ways to skin a cat, I chose an alternate route. I have a fan-less Windows "puck" PC with an external linear power supply running Audirvana Studio into a Schiit Bi-Frost Multi-bit DAC. I love Audirvana as it allows me to combine Tidal, Qobuz and my local files into to a single interface and I can create playlists drawing from any of those sources. There is an app for Android and MAC to control Audirvana if you wish. I am sorry if I sound like a shill for Audirvana, but it offers amazing bit perfect play back and total control over my DAC for setting oversampling and the like. Long winded. My apologies. Thank you for having such a fine channel and having the gift to describe what you hear.
Hi Taurun. I always enjoy your reviews and think your channel is among the best in terms of conveying whats going on technically, marketing, and sound wise in a piece of hi fi gear. So not sure why some folks are going after you on this particular review. However, i will say that i do share some skepticism on just how much of an improvement this device offers over something like an ifi zen streamer with an upgraded power supply. The zen stream is a minimalist design, whereas the Aurelic has a bigger processing board supporting things like eq. And then if you throw a digital to digital device before the DAC (like a Denafrips Iris that you’ve recommended) what could possibly be improved upon with the Aurelic??
Hi Joshua, I guess there are just certain products that bring out the “snake oil brigade.” I suspect the iFi Zen stream is a very good device but I haven’t reviewed it. Auralic have a lot of expertise in this area and have spent considerable time and effort developing their design, the streaming board, the USB and WiFi interfaces. The Denafrips Iris DDC improves the performance of my Auralic Aries Mini but not to the level of the Aries G1.1. I am happy with my conclusions, it up to people to make of it what they wish.
Oh my biggest jump up in sound quality, removing anything from the sound chain that is magnetic (including binding posts, even upgrading resistors were appropriate to audio quality not magnetic inside components), putting a switch connected to a linear power supply, adding a linear power supply to the modem and changing output capacitors in the preamp from Sonicap to Miflex and WOW, complete transformation!
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Just got in the G1.1, It’s amazing! The build quality is outstanding! This unit is my end game Streamer, it blows the iFi Zen out of the water and is better the Aurander H105, you do get what your paying for here 100%. It has room EQ, speaker placement compensation and you can even burn a cd to the internal hard drive! It’s unreal… A real games changer to my system!
Maybe it sounds great, but when i see that very small board inside and big empty space, it just makes me wonder how come we can't get a similar sound for much less money, since Aurelic didn't obviously have to spend much building this. After they return R&D cost, profit margin for this device is huge. Few DDR3 modules (each few $), ARM CPU (~150$), 2 PSU (50$), components for power, display, and it costs 3000€! I know in Hifi price of components doesn't mean much, but this is whole another level. Would like to hear this Aurelic though, too bad local dealers don't stock any.
Actually Simon / 13th Note made me consider the original Aries. These devices are available 2nd hand only, but IMHO get you at least 90% there what the modernized big-metal box Aries streamers can do. Just make sure you get the Aries including the remote control, since it is required to boot up the device. That's the only bummer on the original Aries. Also be aware that there were 2 versions of the original Aries -- the "original" Aries, coming with Femto clocks and a LPS. Later, there was a slightly stripped down version with lesser clocks and switching PS, called Aries LE. The former will get you really close to G1 / G1.1 performance, at least when streaming via USB.
Excellent review once more. A pity the G1.1 doesn't offer i2S output and master clock input to take it next level. The mythical Gustard S16 streamer offers both but appears to be sold only in China.
I saw substantial changes from first upgrading my digital cable and subsequently a streamer and power supply (nothing too fancy). More body, ease and less ‘’hash”. I guess it just sounds more like music and less like a obviously digital reproduction. Should have done it sooner, but I was stingy/skeptical 😃
I don't know why, but shopping for a new streamer has been the hardest part of my audiophile journey😆I love looking at DACs, amps, headphones and speakers, but when it comes to streamers I just get a headache and give up. For some reason I don't like the look of Auralic, Aurender, Lumin, or Innuous products, so I think I'll end up sticking with my B&W Formation Audio until I can afford a base-spec Linn Selekt.
Great review, Tarun, though it seems to have brought out some of the rigid, closed minded, "everything is snake-oil" brigade. My system was transformed, both in functionality and sound quality, by a second hand Auralic Femto and, soon after, an ex-dem Aries G2. I wouldn't have bought the G2 had not the Femto impressed me so much. Incidentally, unless they have changed the layout, it is very easy to install an internal hard drive yourself if you wish to save a few pennies, though Auralic themselves say that SQ is better if you stream rather than use an internal drive. That was my experience and I took it back out.
Thank you Jim. Yes, the “snake oil brigade” are out in force. You may observe that hardly any of them are sharing their direct experience but just seem to be offended by the price of this unit. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Very interesting 👍
Best review as usual! Thanks Tarun! Do you think at this point in time that the Auralic Aries mini, which may still be available in the used market, remains the best streamer sub 1k pounds?
Thank you kindly. It is still very competitive but has relative strengths and weaknesses vs the EverSolo DMP-A6 and Bluesound Node X. I discuss this in the following review 😊 HEAD TO HEAD! Eversolo DMP A6 Vs Bluesound Node X th-cam.com/video/6o2Pb42-nGI/w-d-xo.html
Great Review ! I am using a McIntosh MX123 A/V processor 's DAC in stereo mode , Connected DIGITAL via a Coax Cable to a BluSound NODE streamer. Don't know if the streamer is "Good enough " .... as it is only in a streamer mode and the DAC is external. ( Speakers :Focal Spa 3 ) , PS : If the NODE is to be replaced , Is the Auralic Aries G1.1streamer a good choice ?. thanks
I feel it is best to go for respectable mid range digital components.... If out of budget go used! Tech is moving too fast. Some might spend 20,000 USD on a streamer with good tech specs.. Though will the unit hold up ten years from now when streaming 24/192 or beyond is the norm..... Streaming lossless high res numbers that we cannot even fathom atm... Will the apps now - work in tandem with streamers in the next 5 years? Will companies even support digital legacy?? Time will tell - though I have my eye on this unit... not too expensive.. not too inexpensive.. iI's only missing an rj45 output imo... 5 years from now rj45 will be the standard or close to it! Im waiting for a used G1.1
I was a little stunned when I changed the power cable on just my rotel rc1590 preamp and somehow the bass felt stronger...I only bought it for looks too so imagine my surprise. Noticed no difference at all testing the same power cable on my other integrated or my cambridge avr, only the Rotel somehow. Wish I could plug one into the matching amp but the fuse plug is so large it actually stops the cable from plugging in.
@@johnratcliffe6438 That guy is a joke. Him and all of his cult followers lie about almost everything. As for science, I have yet to see him do something that remotely resembles science. I would tell you to read my posts on that channel proving all this, but he always deletes my posts. I wonder why?
One more comment... Jitter will ruin the sound output of most DACs including our beloved Denafrips DACs, even if they sport some sort of re-clocking on all inputs (SPDIF, USB, ...). I also have a RME ADI-2 DAC FS. This DAC is quite different from the Denafrips DACs in that it seems very input agnostic. It is hard for me to hear any differences in sound output depending on the digital input used. Even a very cheap streamer via TOSLINK or even direct PC/Mac input via USB can get you close to optimum with the RME. Not so when listening to Denafrips DACs. I tried 4 different models of Auralic streamers, a Primare NP5, an Argon SOLO and others on my ARES II and VENUS II. The Auralic streamers sound best, but even here they only sound absolutely best ;) with my Denafrips DACs when streaming via USB. So I wish RME's bullet-proof / jitter-proof digital input stage would be the norm rather than the exception in consumer DACs.
I would think twice before buying a streamer from a small company. It can be that apps from a small company is not supported anymore after some time, because the company has dissapeared or decided to not develop more products in that category and are not willing to put more money in that app.
I don’t think the two power supplies can be for left and right channels as the device is digital in and digital out. All digital information is in a single stream, albeit different data bits represent different information. I upgraded from the Mini with the Auralic LPS to the G2.1 and think it’s a worthwhile improvement.
@@ronlysons6750 I think the point is that such a device does not make changes to the digital data, other than convert from, say, an ethernet stream to a USB stream, but that it doesn’t interfere with and introduce noise and jitter into such data. Bear in mind that when digital data is transmitted electrically there is the possibility of RF being carried on the line, and the digital data is in the medium of an analogue waveform. The matter is the subject of some debate but I don’t think it’s as simple as bits are bits. For example, I have the Innuos Phoenix USB reclocker between my G2.1 and Dave DAC, and that does make a big difference.
Hi Ron, this is a complicated area and poorly understood. I am not claiming to be an expert but in reality there is no such thing as just “ones and zeros.” You are dealing with tiny analogue voltage signals that can get into the megahertz range (bitrate x bit depth). At the threshold, where these voltages are detected as a one or zero, things can easily be corrupted and the waveform distorted by noise. Asynchronous transfers (USB) are in theory supposed to be bit perfect but the reality is quite different. The harder the error correction circuitry has to work, the higher the noise generated. Eradicating other sources of noise is the holy grail of high end audio. This is why you can’t assess the quality of a unit with a superficial glance at what is inside. Auralic are recognised within the industry as one of the leaders in their field. Many manufacturers use their streamers to demo their equipment. They have spent years evolving there designs to reduce jitter, noise. optimise the USB interface and WiFi performance.
Hi Tarun, Glad you did this review as I’ve been considering a streamer and looked into Auralic. Just wondering your opinion on pairing it with my set up. I have Amp Rega Aethos, Speakers ATC scm19’s, Dac Chord Qutest. Would I see the benefit of using a streamer of this value vs my current equipment. Cheers Phil
Hi Phil, your system is exactly at the level where I would expect to see a benefit from using the Auralic Aries G.1.1 as a streaming transport over something like a Bluesound Note 👍
Great review Tarun. Can I ask what delay setting you use on the G1.1 when connecting to the Pontus or Venus. The reason I ask is that my current dedicated streamer and Pontus result in the beginning of some tracks being missing/clipped e.g. Hey Nineteen by Steely Dan which starts really suddenly. I have tried changing settings such as 'buffer before play' to no avail. If an Auralic streamer would solve this problem then I would definitely consider one. Cheers Peter
Thank you for another great review. I would really like to know how the Aries G1.1 compares to a Roon Server + Roon software in terms of sound quality. A comparison with some of the high-end "boutique" brands such as Pachanko or Taiko....
i have a Ares 2 DAC, Rega Brio, Rega RS1 speakers and a Bluesound Node 2i. unwise to spend 2.5k on a steamer. if only Arualic would make a dedicated streamer for $1k i would buy it. the Bluesound is good, but the Zen Stream was a bit better but unreliable. the problem is that no one will build a streamer that will be in the 1k-1.5k usd. price range that will beat the Bluesound Node. to get to the next level one must pony up for something like a Auralic. of course one could consider doing the PD Creative PSU to the Bluesound which i have not heard.
Great review, thank you. I am now left wondering what streamer to purchase, this appears overkill for my setup (DENAFRIPS ARES 12TH DAC supplying a CA AZUR 851A with a pair of FOCAL CHORD 716 speakers). What would you recommend instead as I note the AURALIC MINI is no longer current?
Most of my music is come from steaming service, been Suprise when connected new usb and Ethernet cable. This didn't have sense to me but audiophile nerve take over and tested 7notes audio cables. o boy those cables make a difference now they mine.
Hello Tarun! I love your videos. You must be on the same wavelength as me! I stumbled upon your videos as I near the end of my system upgrading journey. It is now time for the streamer and DAC selection. I am looking at both the Auralic Aries G1.1 and the Denafrips Venus 2. I have not ruled out the Lumin streamers but have ruled out Aurenders. I currently have a Parasound Halo Hint 6, Martin Logan ESL-X speakers, Denafrips Ares II and a Bluesound node 2i. I love my speakers and know the incredible amount of detail they can provide. The amp is a beast with a low noise floor. The Denafrips was a big upgrade over both the Bluesound and Parasounds internal DACS. I am hooked on R2R DACS now. Just curious since you alway state upgrade enough based on what you have.... would the Auralic Aries G1.1 and Denafrips Venus 2 be the best choices? Should I go for the Terminator 2? I also will be able to afford these a few months apart so wonder which unit to buy first? Any advice??
Thank you my friend. I think your system will benefit from what the Pontus will bring. I think going for the Terminator may not be the best use of funds. Give the Pontus at least 200hrs of use before judging. It has a horribly long run-in period. I would live with the Pontus for a while before upgrading your streaming transport. Then you will be able to honestly evaluate the benefits the Aries G1.1 brings. I expect to be significant over the Node 2i 👍
Hi Tarun I have the Denafrips Venus for nearly a year. It’s connected to a Cambridge cxc cd transport and the cxn steamer. I have been think for a while to replace the Cambridge cxn with the Auralic Aries g1.1 can you tell me how you have them connected via usb or coaxial ? Also do you have any problem with intermittent dropout in the music. Keep up the great work.
Hi Tarun, My current setup is: Source - Tidal Network Transport - Bluesound Node 2021 DAC - Denafrips Venus 12th Preamp - Denafrips Athena Power Amp - Kinki Studio EX-B7 mono blocks Speakers - Focal Diablo Utopia Color Evo III Need your kind advice on whether to add Denafrips Gaia DDC to the setup or change the Network Streamer to An Auralic G1.1 / G2.2 or Hifirose RS130
Thanks for the great review and advice on this DAC/ Steamer . I was considering the Hegel H190 , however would like to know if considering this Auralic DAC / streamer with the Naim Nair 3 ,would I get a better and higher streaming quality sound . Appreciate your reply - thanks
Hi vpm m, the H190 is a great allrounder. I haven’t tried the Auralic Altair G1.1 which is their streamer with built-in DAC. My priorities with upgrading are speakers, amp, DAC and source (streamer, CD player, etc.) in that order 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 My mistake and my sincere apology - I meant to ask if the Auralic Aries G1.1 (your Reviewed), is better DAC & Streamer than the one in H190 if it is then I am considering the Naim Nait 3 + Auralic Aries G1.1, Is this better choice or if the H190 ? Thanks in advance. Wishing you a great weekend.
Just placed my order for this G1.1, I didn’t like the software for the H105 Aurander. Have you ever tried the Zen iFi streamer? I think you would be shocked. That’s also one reason I sent back the H105, it wasn’t that much of an upgrade. Let’s see how the G1.1 does against the $400 iFi Zen lol All going into pontes II connected to Iris DDC into tube preamp feeding a 300b amplifier using WE tubes. I’ll also try it paired with the Auralic Vega DAC. Let’s see if this thing can compare to vinyl!
@@Hypofx I will, considering the G1.1 cost 10x more then the iFi network transport and my system already being very transparent with no bottle necks. I will say the Auralic Vega DAC is better then the stand alone Pontus II but when paired with the Iris DDC it’s on the same level just different with more options to customize the listening experience. The software Interface for streaming is killer with the Auralic steamers and much better then others on the market by far. Let’s just say it’s going to be very hard to beat what I have now in terms of sound quality that’s on the same level as vinyl, 3-D layering, soundstage and overall magical experience I have now. If it does it will be Nirvana!
@@Hypofx Just got this G1.1 in and it’s an endgame unit. Buy it you will not be sorry! Build quality is unreal, operates flawlessly big jump and I mean big jump and sound quality from the iFi. I’m this case you are getting what you pay for 100% You can set EQ, speaker placement distance and you can even burn CDs to the internal hard drive! Wow!
@@Hypofx Just got in the G1.1, It’s amazing! The build quality is outstanding! This unit is my end game Streamer, it blows the iFi Zen out of the water and is better the Aurander H105, you do get what your paying for here 100%. It has room EQ, speaker placement compensation and you can even burn a cd to the internal hard drive! It’s u real…
Nice review. :) However if I may suggest an improvement to the channel.. The text inserted between sections of the video could be improved. They look fuzzy and vague. Especially the shadow. My laptop screen could also be part of the explanation?.. It's not that sharp.. Besides that, the video quality is spot on. Have a good weekend. :)
Great video. But my system is not as good as yours. My amp is the Musical Fidelity 5. I would love to have a streamer with lots of storage like this one but my budget is much less maybe 1/3 or so. Can you recommend anything?
Hi Tarun - I am very interested in your feedback seeing as you also have the Venus II. I currently have the Cambridge CXN v2 connected to a PrimaLuna 400 and Dynaudio Evoke 50s. My issue is that the SQ, although good, comes across more as a flat wall, lacking depth and airiness. I was told it is likely the CXN as the bottleneck and upgrading the streamer would be a big improvement. After watching your review, I am curious if you would recommend the Aries G2 with the Venus II over the Altair? My dilemma is that with the Venus II upsampling the CXN, just how much of an improvement could I expect by replacing CXN with the Aries G2 ($7500 CAD)
Hi Paul, I am inclined to agree. I think the CXN is the likely bottleneck. It would be worth getting the Venus II to give you the depth and openness you seek. If it is still lacking then the CXN isn’t up to the task as a transport and I would upgrade to something like an Aries G1.1 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks Tarun. I do have the Venus II. It's connected to the CXN via digital coax out to bypass CXN's internal DAC. So at this point, the Venus II is doing the D/A conversion yet the sound stage remains somewhat wall like. So this is my question... do you feel that the Aries G1.1 would be a major improvement over the CXN seeing as I have the Venus II. Cheers!
In terms of streamers what would be a decent option somewhere in the middle between this Auralic and the sub 1k all in ones? I have a Node into a Hegel h80 and currently looking at upgrading to a standalone DAC. Harbeth speakers.
I am naturally skeptical so when I went from a Cambridge Audio CXA 81 to a Peachtree GaN400 my Tekton Troubadours sounded significantly more detailed including more bass control I was surprised. I wasn't sure I'd hear the difference but it was very obvious. I use a CXNv2 as my streamer, DAC, and preamp. I'm looking to buy separates eventually. I'm very curious if I'll hear differences. This Auralic Aries G1.1 might just be that separate streamer I've been looking for.
For a while, I had a MiniDSP SHD running Dirac connected to a Pontus. It sounded really really good. I wonder what kind of results you'd get putting something like a MiniDSP in between your Auralic and your Venus..
@@abritishaudiophile7314 that makes sense. I guess I would just take the EQ corrections made by Dirac and apply them to the parametric EQ within something like the Aries. I wonder how closely they would match and if I could notice any discernable difference doing it this way.
@@jonathansmoore as long as the frequency response is approximately the same there is an argument to say that it shouldn’t be audible. However, this doesn’t account for phase shift or timing delays that all DSP engines add. That said, we don’t hear individual frequencies but the response is smoothed out over a series of bands. We are more perceptive in picking out differences at lower frequencies rather than higher frequencies. It is explained in this article 😊 community.sw.siemens.com/s/article/critical-bands-in-human-hearing
Hi Tarun, thank you very much for the review. Since the Auralic Aires G1.1 is a high quality streamer, can we get better sound by connecting to the Iris via USB and then to the Pontus II via I2S, or if we connect the Auralic directly to the Pontus II via AES, will it be the best option to get the best sound?
Hi, I have a EAR Yoshino DAC and top of the range JMR speakers and am currently using a RP4. Someone has offered to sell me a second hand Aries G1. Do you think it would make a real difference? I've heard the sound is a bit more clinical than Lumin streamers? Any advice would be welcome.
Hi Tarun, I have Auralic Aries and Ifi zen stream. They both are still working fine. However, I am still looking to try and upgrade. Do you think you are able to review the new Ifi neo stream? Thanks
I noticed the same price between the Aries and the Altair and had a hard time getting some clarity on the differences. Thank you for covering this! You are right up there with Andrew Robinson and Kristi in terms of production quality, review technique, verbal delivery. Much love and respect. Keep up the great work! ❤
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
I love the new format of your review videos… very entertaining, as I enjoy the mention of other products and conepts throughout. And AURALiC is hard to beat in sound quality. I have been using their G1, G1.1 and G2.1 product itterations for years. I think AURALiC is somewhat of a hidden gem of a brand.
Thank you Gene. Much appreciated 😊👍
I couldn’t agree more! This is a really underrated component. I remember seeing the G1 when I started my journey… hugely expensive and without even a DAC! I moved away from the integrated DAC on my (old) Hegel H120 with a Pontus 2 - the result was immediate, and there was no going back. After awhile I started getting curious about transports, and tried Roon. After demoing a top-end SoTM streamer vs. the BlueSound Node 2, I bought one, complete with a dedicated PSU. Running it as a Roon endpoint, the gains were almost (if not as big) as adding the DAC itself. Upon doing home comparisons, the BlueSound suddenly became hard to listen to. Another interesting thing to note - I tried the Hegel H120 (75W) to the H190 (150W) wth this setup. The H120 is very capable, but when you get better sources, better DACs, you need the extra power to really display all of the details. The H190 was far more engaging to listen to, and everything seems more real. My next stop would be to get separate power/pre, but for the moment I am very satisfied with this. I am definitely extracting the best out of my Totem speakers.
Thank you for sharing your experiences Alex 😊
Thank you, Tarun. And high praise indeed.
Thank you my friend 😊👍
Very grateful for these comparisons. Especially since you’re accounting based on your own personal upgrade experience with separate components, combinations, integration etc. It’s really helped to inform my own path! I’ve opted for the rpi platform route, now moved to the Pi2Design Mercury streamer (from an Allo board transport). It was a profound improvement. Other Reviewers already touting it besting the ifi zen stream by a large margin. Albeit fidgety, be curious to see how it might compare against the Auralic offerings.
Thank you John. Great to learn about your experiences 👍
Another nice one Tarun, I've had a couple of surprising results when changing things in my setup and changed my mind about what is important. First was a speaker cable change, I wasn't expecting any audible change but was really shocked at the difference with the new cables. It pointed out to me that my old cables were really holding back some of the sound quality in the system.
Next was going from a 120W solid-state amp to 600W Monoblocks, this sounded like I had bought new speakers, they really woke up and performed on a new level.
Last was going from a $2k DAC to a $14k, this showed me the improvement isn't as great as the price tag. I did a number of in-home trials with the Hugo TT2, Holo Spring 3 and finally decided the Weiss 502 was the best. But it's still debatable whether these high-end products are worth their price tags.
Interesting stuff Anthony. Thank you for sharing 👍
In my opinion, the best hi-fi reviews. Professional, informative with great tech detail but also low key. A streamer I had been looking at but I guess not close enough to pay attention to find out it does not support a Windows/Android app. Deal breaker for me unfortunately. Keep up the great work!
You can use Android and Windows apps that work with the OpenHome streaming protocol as a remote control, and you can access the settings menu from a browser. Their own app is apple only, it's the slickest user interface but not essential.
Thank you 😊
Hi Tarun, I think you reviews and insights into audio components are fabulous!
Like any review, we all different reference systems we compare products too and brands we are biased towards!
I for one worship anything designed by Nelson Pass and are a massive fan of the complete Rega Range!
And in a complete opposite think Linn products are over priced!
Audio is all personal taste!!
So keep up the great work mate!
Thank you Adrian. That is very much appreciated 😊👍
My biggest surprise came unexpectedly, and recently.
I have a Luxman 590AXII integrated amp with a good quality Chinese (Consonance Reference 8, 25th anniversary) streamer/DAC. I was looking to go to a very high level DAC.
I auditioned a Mola Mola Tambaqui and was very impressed. The dealer offered me a very good deal on the Mola Mola Makua preamp with the Tambaqui included (and also included the phono stage). I could not refuse the offer and brought the unit home. The Tambaqui is a Roon endpoint but I could also use the streamer from my old Consonance unit into the USB input.
It was no surprise the Tambaqui as a Roon endpoint sounded better than the Consonance unit. It was also better than using the Consonance as a streamer.
The surprise was the improvement in sound quality the Makua preamp provided (connected into the Luxman integrated which is now just being used just as a power amp) - even with the old Consonance DAC it sounded substantially better. Luxman's integrated pre-amp was no slouch, but the Makua tightened the bass and widened the soundstage considerably.
Surprise number 2 was the improvement of the Makua's phono stage which replaced a Dynavector P75 MkIII. It was a bigger difference than the DAC. Mola Mola is now about to release the phono stage in a separate box as the Lupe Phono Stage. I am not sure of the price but it performs at a high level.
Always nice to have such good surprises.
Very interesting Ian. Thank you for sharing 😊
Hi Tarun. Nice work. I own an Auralic Aries G2.1 as my main streamer. I think it should be noted that if you don’t have an iOS device you can still use Lightning DS by entering your Auralic’s IP address into the URL bar of your browser. To make things easier you can bind the IP address using your router so you can save a shortcut to your Aries on your desktop or phone screen.
Thank you. That is really useful, I want aware you could do that 😊👍
Thanks for that info RJ. I don't own any Auralic equipment but when Tarun mentioned the app issue, I was certainly put off, as I don't and won't own an iPhone/iPad.
Absolutely this. I bought an old ipad to run their lightening software, so i thought id run roon on it too. I wish I hadnt of bothered as its completely not needed fir a roon user, and roon app on ios crashes constantly, but hardly ever does on android. Simply typing the units ip address into any browser lets you access all the functions you might want to play with on the unit in a much more accessible way.
If you are a roon user, you dont need an apple device to run this unit at all, I wasted my money, lol 😂
@@titntin5178 Similar to you, despite my aversion to all things Apple, I bought a cheap second hand iPad for my Aries G2, then discovered Roon. Now I control the system with a lovely Samsung Galaxy S8 ultra with its gorgeous 14.6" screen.
Hello would you say it would be easy to control the G1 with a Samsung phone for just Tidal and Qubuz? No roon
Hi Tarun, I also bit the bullet and bought Aires G1.1. I must say it is truly an amazing piece of gear. As you say, it has to be partnered with quality gear to be appreciated. I was hesitant to jump in the streaming universe, but I am glad I did. Keep up the good work, I truly enjoy your videos.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. Much appreciated 😊👍
Hi Tarun, great video. I can’t understand why anyone who loves digital wouldn’t want a dedicated streamer, so, like you, I’m not surprised this streamer is a great piece.
On surprises, I have two, both nerdy! The first was replacing the standard opamps in my CD player with those Burson Audio V6 Vivids you showed. The second was fitting RC snubbers across the bridge rectifiers in my Musical Fidelity dual mono amp. Components like this really matter, in my experience and for those with a little skill with a soldering iron, the world of upgrading can be a much cheaper and more satisfying place.
Thank you Mark. Much appreciated. Always great to learn about your experiences 😊👍
Venus 2 is a great choice! Have had this running for around 12 months feeding my vintage NAD 3020 (new in 1982, recapped in 2020) and recently installed NAD C 298.
Thank you for sharing 👍
Good to hear your enjoying the system upgrade. I have one of these as well and am really enjoying it. It replaced a Cambridge Audio CXN v2 that was nice had onboard dac section. This really was a decent step up though and i sold the CXN on straight away. Great review and loving the channel!
Thank you VG 👍
I'm surprised that reviewers haven't spent any time talking about WiFi vs. Ethernet connectivity, particularly since Auralic has a unique point of view on this subject (i.e., that WiFi is better). Has anyone here tested that thesis with the G1 or G1.1? If so, what was your upstream equipment?
Thanks for your perspective, Tarun. I have the Venus II too, and feed it with a Lumin U2 Mini with SBooster … I came from the ifi Zen Stream/Pontus, so the difference was definitely audible. After it all, the convenience and sound from the dedicated Lumin app made it worth it. It’s not night and day, but it’s better, cleaner, easier.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I have to say that I subscribed to the notion that a streamer just passes the signal. And maybe that’s all it does, but then couple that with better processing power, better power supply, better integration of app … those elements might be the difference I am hearing. And if so, I’m ok with that. Incremental improvements, for sure. The reasons that make for those improvements aren’t so important to me.
Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
Hi Tarun, I am not an expert in digital audio, so this was a great video to get some understanding what a streamer can do. It also underlines the old audio wisdom that less is often more.
I have had a few surprises over the years but one of my second audio journey was to find out how the automatic turntable Dual 1019 from the mid late 60's that has been build with audiophile intention but is flawed on many levels is so addictive. I have done so many A / B tests (I own more than 10 turntables) against the Dual 1019 (and Dual 1009) and have no problems finding a turntable that objectively sounds better. But in the end I still prefer to listen to the Dual when it comes to enjoying music. Perhaps it is psycho acoustics and if that is so, then so be it. In any case, back in the day, Dual claimed that they have put all their knowledge in this product. I think they where actually telling the truth on that occasion.
Thank you Hugo. Very interesting and great to learn about your experiences 😊👍
Another nice post Tarun, thanks for them all. My two unexpected surprises were adding a better powercord to a linear power supply connected to a cisco switch and adding a cleansweep in between my mains wall socket and stereosystem.
Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
🤗👍 THANKS TARUN …FOR GIVING US A PEEK …into the mind of a BRITISH AUDIOPHILE 😁😎💚💚💚
Thank you buddy 😊👍
Tarun, I too have found the power supply to be the weakest link - a friend of mine has a Topping DAC that didn't come with a PS. He hooked up a SMPS with disastrous results - its HF noise aliased down into the audio band. I ended up modifying its cable with two ferrite Baluns to suppress the common mode noise then filtered the remaining ripple with an RC Pi filter matched to the Topping's load impedance. We were rewarded with a dead silent noise floor. I used the same technique with my Meridian Explorer II DAC with its supplied Meridian SMPS with like results.
Interesting. Thank you for sharing Bradley 😊
Great review. I have an Auralic Aries (original) with the ultra quiet power supply. I was surprised that Auralic recommends a wireless connection for their products, but it has worked great ever since I’ve had it. Once and a while it will go silent, but has always snapped back in less than a minute. I like the Auralic products, but they don’t always align perfectly with what others offer on the market.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 It is a great review because he organizes the information so well and because he offers reasoned judgments as to quality of build (with comparisons), sound quality (his descriptions are masterful, and he cross-references his terms to terms that others might use to describe the same phenomena he is hearing. And finally, I think he DOES do a great job of giving you an idea of what value you should get for your money; he is at pains to describe the equipment that would partner well with the item under review. The $2,500 streamer isn’t going to lift an amp + DAC + speaker combo at $1,500; but it WILL offer a step up to a system with $3,000 to $5,000 struggling with a Blue Sound node 2i or similar. At least that is what I heard; I don’t spend too much time with the Cheap Audio folks; I want to improve my system. Do your reviews the way you want to do them, I find value in them too; but don’t criticize someone just because they don’t think or talk like you. As my grandmother would say, “If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all.”
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I do like your reviews and find your opinions informative, but with all the comments you are making on this video it seems like you have a bone to pick with either Tarun or Auralic.
Ding ding, time out methinks. Respect you both for what you have done and the sacrifices you endure to bring this content for the enjoyment of others, being able to sample equipment that most of your audience would love to hear and experience. Some products are severely overpriced, dare I mention Roon nucleus? With the ares it is also usability and features such as lightning that add to the cost. Using it as purely a Roon endpoint would be a waste to my mind. Knowing if you had x amount to spend and where to spend that money to get the best outcome is so full of variables you could only get an indication, and that is what you content providers give us. Bear in mind that most who view content also don’t have the first idea of what’s involved behind the scenes, but like all industries, it won’t be a bed of roses. In hifi it’s always been the same, old enough to recall the attitudes between rival hifi magazines, linn and roksan, linn and naim and many many others. Hifi shows aren’t as bad now but pistols at dawn have been known! You are both capable of excellent content and have different ideas of how to get messages across.
@@13thnotehifireviews7 I think you really need to pay more attention to what he is saying: both the DAC and the streamer offered similar improvements which he described as clarity and density without a change in tonality. So he’s telling you what to expect and we’ll as what not to expect. Again, you do your reviews and let Taurn do Taurn and you do you; but please stop criticizing Taurn for not being you. My last response on this topic. You’re spoiling my experience of a great review.
Hi Jeremiah, thank you for your kind words. In this review, I wanted to place a bit more emphasis on my personal hifi journey. In the context of my reference system: Auralic Aries Mini / Denafrips Venus II / Exposure XXI & XVIII / ProAc Response 1SCs, an upgrade to the digital transport is what I would consider next.
I could have made more comparisons such with the Primare CD15 Prisma (which has exactly the same steaming module as the NP5 built-in) but the video was long enough already. It is not just the sound quality improvement of the Auralic Aries G1.1 that impresses, outperforming the CD15 Prisma, the build, display and user interface are much better too. Hence, worthy of my Outstanding award.
The less formulaic, more personally reflective nature of this review meant it wasn’t so heavily comparison based. Hopefully, viewers gained a greater sense of what it was like to be there with me and experience the product. Thank you for your support, once again 😊👍
Hi Tarun, my system consists of the components you like. Namely, Auralic Aries G1 (noted not 1.1 but very similar), Venus 2, ATC SCM19s (passive) and Rel T/7X. Regarding the SCM19s, I am powering that with Kinki Studio EX-M1 integrated amp (215WPC). The amp has unrivalled dynamics and has more than enough to drive the 19s with ease. I’m also using Denafrips Gaia DDC which I thoroughly recommend, it gives the soundstage additional dimensionality and the different it made is beyond comprehension. As always, excellent no BS review. Keep up the great work! 👍
Thank you Wai. Much appreciated and great to learn about your experiences 😊👍
A fascinating review - thank you for all your hard work, Tarun. (I’ve been a subscriber from the beginning - a superb channel.)
Thank you Christian. That is very much appreciated 😊👍
A nice review Tarun, very informative. I was chewing the cud thinking about this streamer. Currently have the Node 2i that has been pimped to run off and Sbooster linear power supply to good effect. Will get a home demo now based on your review. Recently acquired a H590 looking for a front end to do it justice
Great. Please let me know how you get on 👍
Would love to see you review the Eversolo DMP-A6 as a streaming transport and compare directly versus these $2k+ transports like the Aries G1.1, Lumin, Innuos, etc. I’ve been reading more and more people saying the Eversolo delivers equal or better sound quality at half the price
Watch this space 😊
Hi Tarun,
Another wonderful video. You are one of the very few reviewers of audio equipment I actually trust. Your reviews are balanced, and uncolored. I really love that about your videos. I have decided, in consideration of your advise, not to get another Adcom 555 to be used as mono-blocks. It would be way too much for my listening room. As far as the streamer... I recently built a new media server to store not only music, but also music videos and television series. It utilizes a very good separate sound-card featuring 32bit / 384khz and I have 12tb of storage....
Also, I love your sweater you are wearing. That looks amazing on you. Do you remember where you got it, as I would love to get one for my husband. 😊
Thank you AP. Much appreciated. I bet building that music server was a fun project. Very impressive. The jumper is by a brand named Kensington, Est. 1927. Here is a link to a retailer. I hope hubby likes it 😊👍
www.dv8fashion.com/en/Kensington-Knitwear/bc-1153-431.aspx?SortBy=newestdesc
@@jimfarrell4635 That is kind of you to say, Thank you! 😊 I'm a foreign language teacher and deal with teenagers all day. Here, you learn a few things about diplomacy. 😂 The gentleman in the classroom across from me is a former Army drill Sargent; his approach is typically a bit louder, and much more direct than mine. 😉
@@AgentPepsi1 Hi AP and Jim, I have deleted Simon’s (13th Note) comment. I do not permit people to criticise my viewers. Simon should know better and if he continues I will block him. Please accept my apologies that you had to put up with it.
Interesting - some weeks ago I did an “Aurelic Streamer shootout” at home with some borrowed devices: The Aries Mini with LPS, the 2015 Aries Femto (with LPS as well), the Aries G1 and Aries G1.1.
All four streaming via USB, partly also tried AES-EBU or Coax SPDIF into the Venus II.
Result for me: G1 and G1.1 were indistinguishable for me, Aries MINI + LPS a little behind - but not by very far. I settled on the Aries Femto now for, streaming via USB into the Venus II. Got a ~130$/EUR/GBP SUPRA USB cable to avoid any doubts about interconnect issues.
Very interesting, thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
Did you try G1.1 with LPS?
@@morespinach9832not quite sure what you mean - the Aries G1.1 has an internal power supply...
What speakers and amps? I bet that has a bigger impact on what you hear than only the streamer.
@@morespinach9832 yes of course speakers in particular have the single most important impact on sound.
But that wasn't the point of this video.
Hey Tarun, another very good review.
Thank you Paul 👍
Thanks Tarun I’m in the process of looking for a streamer to accompany my PSA DSD dac. There’s certainly a few out there & some brands I’ve never heard of before, when you look inside they all do seem a little bare with some just what looks like a raspberry pi board in a fancy box. The better or more expensive ones do seem to have a better linear power supply inside. My conundrum is finding one with i2s & AirPlay. I2s seems to be slowly gaining adoption which is why I’m holding back for the moment although the lumin mini has me tempted it’s just the lack of i2s which stops me.
Keep up the good work & ignore the comments of another channel we trust your integrity 👍🏻
Thank you my friend. Much appreciated. Not many streamers have I2S, I suspect they are optimised for an asynchronous transfer via USB. The Aries G1.1 sounds better through USB rather than SPDIF 😊👍
Hello, my biggest surprise was the tube amp, specifically the Cayin cs55a, which is entry level. Greetings from A Coruña, Galicia, Spain, thanks for the videos.
Thank you Jose 😎
I've got an Altair G2.1. It is really very good. Decent app and although the text on the built in screen is tiny, the whole thing works very well.
Thank you for sharing Billy 😊
Type the units ip address into any browser. Never need to use the tiny writting on screen again. Amazing how few users seem to know about this, and a big rebuke to auralic for their confused documentation which is pretty poor and a major reason people struggle with the silly screen and knob when they could be relax8ng 8n their listening position with a tablet or phone adjusting the unit.
@@titntin5178 I use my iPad to run the machine and change settings. I can’t read the tiny screen text, it is too small for me.
Excellent review Tarun. I've been eyeing an Aries G1.1 for months now. Currently using a ESolo DMP-A8 as a streamer to a Pontus 2/12th into an Athena preamp driving a Parasound JC5. Cornwall 4s and also Martin Logan XT Motion F200. I believe from your review my system would benefit fro the Aries G1.1. I am eyeing a used Innuos mini Mk3 with the optional linear power supply as well. Thank you again for the superb review.
Just had the Eversolo A8 on demo, can’t get to grips with the app, I have an Auralic vega g1 & find the simplicity of the auralic app so good. Interesting your take if you do purchase the Aries compared to the Eversolo
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Sounds like a nice addition to your setup Tarun. My biggest surprise on my audiophile journey is how my 20 year old speakers are still relevant today and consistently outperform many upgrade candidates in the price range and sometimes above. I would need to spend silly money to step change the performance. I am sure you and your ProAc Response 1SCs can empathize? Why do you think this is the case?
Thank you for sharing. I think speaker design is part science and part art. Those gems of the past where they nailed it still sound amazing today. Material science may have progressed but so has parts cost 👍
I still have my KEF KIT 3s from 50 years ago - modded and modded of course!
Reviewers generally avoid comparing streamers. This is crazy. Your descriptions of the various upgrades and how they might fit into
someone's system are excellent. As usual. Biggest eye opening upgrade? Bypassing the Oppo 205 DAC in favor of the Aries 2.
Thank you Jeff. Much appreciated 😊👍
I've used an Aries G1 for a few years now, it is one of my most satisfying hi-fi purchases ever, even though it is one of the least expensive major components of my system.
The Bluesound Node (latest version), wiim mini and a Yamaha streamer, used as transports didn't really sound better than an Android phone running the UAPP app. The Primare NP5 is a step up from those, but the Auralic is the only one that has made Qobuz or Tidal as satisfying as LPs and CDs in my system.
I'm sure that there are some hair-shirt alternatives that sound just as good for less, but the nice case and great app add a lot of value for me.
I’m with you on this, I bought an Aries and despite it seemingly not doing much, I get the most pleasure from it. The build, look, app, functionality all add up to a package that despite the high price make me feel happy to use/own. It’s the one component I’m never looking at upgrade options, therefore it’s good value!
@@Benvos it should also be said that the firmware updates from Auralic have genuinely improved the Aries' functionality over time, with adding streaming services and features such as the recent upgrade to AirPlay2. I have had the Primare NP5 nearly as long, and that company is not in the same league when it comes to software. Yamaha seemed to give up on their device after a couple of years, their app was woeful.
Hi Me, I agree with you. The sound quality, build, display, app, user interface all are important in accessing the value of this brand. Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
Hair shirt alternatives. Cool phrase 😂
With vinyl the aim is to ensure isolation to get the best out of the source. For digital in the ‘it’s only 1s and 0s and the world is made of snake oil’ the two surprise highlights for me were adding an English electric 8 switch and ENO filter. I guess this is the digital equivalent of isolation. I was already getting a good sound but with these in the chain vocals improved significantly and bass was a shock, far deeper with defined transients. There are times I hate this hobby, there is always something better, but even if there is it is probably thousands and may not suit your system! And your system has to be capable of showing that improvement, something you highlighted very well in your review
Thank you. I appreciate you sharing your experiences 😊
Love your reviews. I learn around the subject
Thank you Tom. Much appreciated 😊👍
Good watch, thank you. Im now using an altair g1 myself and enjoying it very much, the auralic units seem to have the characteristics I value, and have roon compliance and the ability to set the screen to go dark (horray!)
Having gone all futurefi and loving a naim atom for a while, i couldnt help myself and beefed up the amplification a bit with a Naim NAP250dr. After that the amp in the Atom seemed superfluous, so I swapped it out for the Altair G1. No doubt a dac will follow as I work backwards again from my all in one 😀 Once an audiophile, always...
P. S. You can edit all of the configuration settings directly from any browser as your machine is available as an ip address on your network. I use an android tablet. Adjusting many of these settings, like the equalser or speaker balance, whilst sitting and listening is essential, and I find it preferable than using the screen input, which is small and requires glasses for these old eyes!
Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
Thanks for the great review. I've decided it's time to upgrade the 17 yo Benchmark DAC1. I use the Bluesound Node 2i as a streamer; not using its DAC - the Benchmark is (still) better. I looked at the Hegel 190 and was unimpressed with the DAC. So have been contemplating something a bit bigger (a new streamer and a new DAC). I recently auditioned the (superseded) Auralic Altair G1. And was a bit underwhelmed. So will re-look to the Aries (with SSD) and do the DAC later. Interestingly there was a significant and audible difference between Tidal and Qobuz - which I've experienced in my own system at home (Qobuz being my preference). I'll keep auditioning (and saving) - I can see this won't be an easy or cheap process. So I'm focusing on power conditioning and isolation (room and equip) at home while auditioning the streamer and DAC options. Have you auditioned the Lab12 DAC 1? I was impressed. Thoughts on Mytek Brooklyn Bridge? (they're hard to find here)
Thank you Colin. Great to learn about your experiences. Unfortunately I haven’t heard the Mytek Brooklyn Bridge or the Lab12 😊
You wondered what the two separate transformers in the power supply are used for. According to the Hifi News review of the Aries G2.1 'Meanwhile, dual 'Purer-Power' linear power supplies are employed, one for the processor, display and storage, and the other for the unit's clocks and USB output'.
I originally bought an Auralic Vega G2.1 DAC, which includes an inbuilt streamer. I was very impressed by the standard of streamed audio that this produced, but my dealer loaned me an Aries G2.1 to see if I thought it worth the extra money. I was astonished by the improvement in imaging and leading edge definition that the separate streamer provided. I guess that as you say, freeing the Vega's power supply to only concentrate on the DAC function is responsible for the majority of the gains. I did buy the Aries.
My criticism of the Auralic range is that if you go for the full equipment stack, there is a substantial amount of duplication of function. If Auralic produced a DAC which consisted only of the DAC section of the Vega it would not need to contain a streamer or a variable output, and therefore would be substantially cheaper.
My next purchase will possibly be the Sirius upsampler, which gets very good reviews, but is a costly unit. Hopefully I will be able to afford one within the next year.
One more comment - I find that anything that reduces electrical noise make a real difference to high-quality streaming. I bought an Ifi iPurifier which sits between my Auralic components and a couple of components with switch mode power supplies in my mains block. I also bought two Chord Groundarays which I plugged into my Vega and my Aries. Both of these additions improved sound quality substantially.
Very interesting. Great to learn about your experiences. Thank you 😊👍
Great review. I wish you can do a Auralic vs Lumin comparison review some time.
Thank you. Working on it 👍
Excellent review. I have concluded that I've neglected my sources. I did upgrade to a Pontus II and added a LPS to my Node but I am sniffing around at better steamer. I sure would like it if you got your hand on a Lumin U2 mini streamer. Supposedly good, $1000 less but no Wifi. I read that the Audalic people have put special emphasis on the wifi input vs Cable. Funny how things go around, in the paleo rock days The Brits were telling everyone their first move should be to get the best source (turntable and cartridge) they could afford because the preamp passes it on to the amp that drives the speakers so it was the old story of garbage in and garbage out. Your modest speakers would sound a lot better if properly fed. Simpler back then, no digital just Linn LP12, Pink Triangle, Rega, Michele etc.
Thank you Jim. Always great to get your perspective. I will miss the Aries G1.1 when it goes back. Time to start saving again 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 People keep talking about diminishing return. I find it very disturbing that the more money I spend the better things get.
Despite some of the “rude “ comments below, I would be interested in a review of taking a low cost streamer in a good ecosystem (e.g. Sonos port) feeding it to an ifi ipure 2 to clean up any jitter and power issues, feeding a higher quality dac, such as a Denefrips. Does the “bit” streamer really matter, or are audio differences driven mostly by the DAC after the signal is cleaned up. At any rate, it would help put some of the endless debate about such things to rest. Oh wait, this is audio, nothing will put the endless debates to rest!
Well said Brad 😊
Hi Tarun, see from website: "Processing and display power is completely separated from sensitive audio components that operate on their own dedicated supply". one PS is for digital processing and display, second PS is for audio streaming chips only...
Thank you for letting me know 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 U Welcome!
My surprise was also replacing, separation and improvement of regulated linear power supplies of my modem/router, (separate!) switch, Raspberry Pi, Pi2AES hat, digital part of my R2R ladder DAC board, analog stage of my R2R ladder DAC board, especially using LT3042 LDO’s behind cheap Chinese oversized Jung Super Regulator boards.
(so six transformers and psu-board).
Thank you for sharing Ed 👍
Another fine review. As there are many ways to skin a cat, I chose an alternate route. I have a fan-less Windows "puck" PC with an external linear power supply running Audirvana Studio into a Schiit Bi-Frost Multi-bit DAC. I love Audirvana as it allows me to combine Tidal, Qobuz and my local files into to a single interface and I can create playlists drawing from any of those sources. There is an app for Android and MAC to control Audirvana if you wish. I am sorry if I sound like a shill for Audirvana, but it offers amazing bit perfect play back and total control over my DAC for setting oversampling and the like. Long winded. My apologies. Thank you for having such a fine channel and having the gift to describe what you hear.
Thank you my friend. Great to learn about your experiences 👍
Hi Taurun. I always enjoy your reviews and think your channel is among the best in terms of conveying whats going on technically, marketing, and sound wise in a piece of hi fi gear. So not sure why some folks are going after you on this particular review. However, i will say that i do share some skepticism on just how much of an improvement this device offers over something like an ifi zen streamer with an upgraded power supply. The zen stream is a minimalist design, whereas the Aurelic has a bigger processing board supporting things like eq. And then if you throw a digital to digital device before the DAC (like a Denafrips Iris that you’ve recommended) what could possibly be improved upon with the Aurelic??
Hi Joshua, I guess there are just certain products that bring out the “snake oil brigade.” I suspect the iFi Zen stream is a very good device but I haven’t reviewed it. Auralic have a lot of expertise in this area and have spent considerable time and effort developing their design, the streaming board, the USB and WiFi interfaces.
The Denafrips Iris DDC improves the performance of my Auralic Aries Mini but not to the level of the Aries G1.1. I am happy with my conclusions, it up to people to make of it what they wish.
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks. One question: are you still using the denafrips Iris before your Venus DAC??
@@joshuaschneck I didn’t in this review but will be investigating if it brings an improvement soon 😊
Oh my biggest jump up in sound quality, removing anything from the sound chain that is magnetic (including binding posts, even upgrading resistors were appropriate to audio quality not magnetic inside components), putting a switch connected to a linear power supply, adding a linear power supply to the modem and changing output capacitors in the preamp from Sonicap to Miflex and WOW, complete transformation!
Cool 😎 thank you for sharing 👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Just got in the G1.1, It’s amazing! The build quality is outstanding! This unit is my end game Streamer, it blows the iFi Zen out of the water and is better the Aurander H105, you do get what your paying for here 100%. It has room EQ, speaker placement compensation and you can even burn a cd to the internal hard drive! It’s unreal… A real games changer to my system!
@@stevenpaul3886 thank you for sharing. I was very impressed with it too 👍
Very nicely done mate!
Thank you buddy 😊
Absolutely amazing info Tarun .. so what happened to your Aris 2 and old streaming?
Thank you Atri, I still have my Auralic Aries Mini streamer. The Denafrips Ares II DAC was returned a long time ago 😊👍
Maybe it sounds great, but when i see that very small board inside and big empty space, it just makes me wonder how come we can't get a similar sound for much less money, since Aurelic didn't obviously have to spend much building this. After they return R&D cost, profit margin for this device is huge.
Few DDR3 modules (each few $), ARM CPU (~150$), 2 PSU (50$), components for power, display, and it costs 3000€! I know in Hifi price of components doesn't mean much, but this is whole another level.
Would like to hear this Aurelic though, too bad local dealers don't stock any.
Thank you for giving your perspective Hrvoje 😊
@@13thnotehifireviews7 they left space for a hard drive, which seems like a great addition to a streaming box.
Actually Simon / 13th Note made me consider the original Aries.
These devices are available 2nd hand only, but IMHO get you at least 90% there what the modernized big-metal box Aries streamers can do.
Just make sure you get the Aries including the remote control, since it is required to boot up the device. That's the only bummer on the original Aries.
Also be aware that there were 2 versions of the original Aries -- the "original" Aries, coming with Femto clocks and a LPS. Later, there was a slightly stripped down version with lesser clocks and switching PS, called Aries LE.
The former will get you really close to G1 / G1.1 performance, at least when streaming via USB.
Excellent review once more. A pity the G1.1 doesn't offer i2S output and master clock input to take it next level. The mythical Gustard S16 streamer offers both but appears to be sold only in China.
Thank you. I did wonder about I2S too. The Innous, Melco, Aurender, Lumin don’t seem to have I2S either. They are all optimised for ISB 🤔👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 i2s is on paper technically superior, to digital but only Chinese and Dutch manufacturers seem to use it so far.
I saw substantial changes from first upgrading my digital cable and subsequently a streamer and power supply (nothing too fancy). More body, ease and less ‘’hash”. I guess it just sounds more like music and less like a obviously digital reproduction. Should have done it sooner, but I was stingy/skeptical 😃
That is what I experienced too. Thank you for sharing your experiences 😊
I don't know why, but shopping for a new streamer has been the hardest part of my audiophile journey😆I love looking at DACs, amps, headphones and speakers, but when it comes to streamers I just get a headache and give up. For some reason I don't like the look of Auralic, Aurender, Lumin, or Innuous products, so I think I'll end up sticking with my B&W Formation Audio until I can afford a base-spec Linn Selekt.
Thank you for sharing 😊
Great review, Tarun, though it seems to have brought out some of the rigid, closed minded, "everything is snake-oil" brigade.
My system was transformed, both in functionality and sound quality, by a second hand Auralic Femto and, soon after, an ex-dem Aries G2. I wouldn't have bought the G2 had not the Femto impressed me so much.
Incidentally, unless they have changed the layout, it is very easy to install an internal hard drive yourself if you wish to save a few pennies, though Auralic themselves say that SQ is better if you stream rather than use an internal drive. That was my experience and I took it back out.
Thank you Jim. Yes, the “snake oil brigade” are out in force. You may observe that hardly any of them are sharing their direct experience but just seem to be offended by the price of this unit. Thank you for sharing your experiences. Very interesting 👍
Brilliant video !!
Thank you Richard 😊👍
Happy Holidays Tarun Congratulations on another great Year! Wondering are you planning to add the G1.1 as your replacement streamer going forward?
Thank you. I have got the G1 on long term loan. I will probably wind up buying it if they give me a good deal 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314the lightning ds app in its simplicity is a joy to operate, I think because of this Auralic will always front my system
Best review as usual! Thanks Tarun! Do you think at this point in time that the Auralic Aries mini, which may still be available in the used market, remains the best streamer sub 1k pounds?
Thank you kindly. It is still very competitive but has relative strengths and weaknesses vs the EverSolo DMP-A6 and Bluesound Node X. I discuss this in the following review 😊
HEAD TO HEAD! Eversolo DMP A6 Vs Bluesound Node X
th-cam.com/video/6o2Pb42-nGI/w-d-xo.html
Thanks Tarun for taking the time to reply to me. More power to you! 🙏
Hey Simon my wife totally agrees with you, and she is always right!!😀
Great Review ! I am using a McIntosh MX123 A/V processor 's DAC in stereo mode , Connected DIGITAL via a Coax Cable to a BluSound NODE streamer. Don't know if the streamer is "Good enough " .... as it is only in a streamer mode and the DAC is external. ( Speakers :Focal Spa 3 ) , PS : If the NODE is to be replaced , Is the Auralic Aries G1.1streamer a good choice ?. thanks
Thank you. I think it would be worth your while checking out the Aries G1.1 😊
I feel it is best to go for respectable mid range digital components.... If out of budget go used! Tech is moving too fast. Some might spend 20,000 USD on a streamer with good tech specs.. Though will the unit hold up ten years from now when streaming 24/192 or beyond is the norm..... Streaming lossless high res numbers that we cannot even fathom atm... Will the apps now - work in tandem with streamers in the next 5 years? Will companies even support digital legacy?? Time will tell - though I have my eye on this unit... not too expensive.. not too inexpensive.. iI's only missing an rj45 output imo... 5 years from now rj45 will be the standard or close to it! Im waiting for a used G1.1
Thank you for sharing 😊
Power cables… massive change in soundstage, specifically the amplifier one
I was a little stunned when I changed the power cable on just my rotel rc1590 preamp and somehow the bass felt stronger...I only bought it for looks too so imagine my surprise.
Noticed no difference at all testing the same power cable on my other integrated or my cambridge avr, only the Rotel somehow. Wish I could plug one into the matching amp but the fuse plug is so large it actually stops the cable from plugging in.
A massive change in your wallet and that's about it.
@@johnratcliffe6438 not really…
@@hugocosta179 Yes really. Go to ASR and educate yourself.
@@johnratcliffe6438 That guy is a joke. Him and all of his cult followers lie about almost everything. As for science, I have yet to see him do something that remotely resembles science. I would tell you to read my posts on that channel proving all this, but he always deletes my posts. I wonder why?
Good informatieve review, this streamer is not for my system or budget 🙂
But £400 for 2TB, WOW!
Thank you Willem, it is an SSD 😊
One more comment... Jitter will ruin the sound output of most DACs including our beloved Denafrips DACs, even if they sport some sort of re-clocking on all inputs (SPDIF, USB, ...).
I also have a RME ADI-2 DAC FS. This DAC is quite different from the Denafrips DACs in that it seems very input agnostic. It is hard for me to hear any differences in sound output depending on the digital input used. Even a very cheap streamer via TOSLINK or even direct PC/Mac input via USB can get you close to optimum with the RME.
Not so when listening to Denafrips DACs.
I tried 4 different models of Auralic streamers, a Primare NP5, an Argon SOLO and others on my ARES II and VENUS II.
The Auralic streamers sound best, but even here they only sound absolutely best ;) with my Denafrips DACs when streaming via USB.
So I wish RME's bullet-proof / jitter-proof digital input stage would be the norm rather than the exception in consumer DACs.
I would think twice before buying a streamer from a small company. It can be that apps from a small company is not supported anymore after some time, because the company has dissapeared or decided to not develop more products in that category and are not willing to put more money in that app.
Good point 😊
a G1.1 vs G2 comparison would be interesting
Perhaps in the future 😊
I don’t think the two power supplies can be for left and right channels as the device is digital in and digital out. All digital information is in a single stream, albeit different data bits represent different information.
I upgraded from the Mini with the Auralic LPS to the G2.1 and think it’s a worthwhile improvement.
@@ronlysons6750 I think the point is that such a device does not make changes to the digital data, other than convert from, say, an ethernet stream to a USB stream, but that it doesn’t interfere with and introduce noise and jitter into such data. Bear in mind that when digital data is transmitted electrically there is the possibility of RF being carried on the line, and the digital data is in the medium of an analogue waveform. The matter is the subject of some debate but I don’t think it’s as simple as bits are bits. For example, I have the Innuos Phoenix USB reclocker between my G2.1 and Dave DAC, and that does make a big difference.
Thank you Colin 😊
Hi Ron, this is a complicated area and poorly understood. I am not claiming to be an expert but in reality there is no such thing as just “ones and zeros.” You are dealing with tiny analogue voltage signals that can get into the megahertz range (bitrate x bit depth). At the threshold, where these voltages are detected as a one or zero, things can easily be corrupted and the waveform distorted by noise.
Asynchronous transfers (USB) are in theory supposed to be bit perfect but the reality is quite different. The harder the error correction circuitry has to work, the higher the noise generated. Eradicating other sources of noise is the holy grail of high end audio. This is why you can’t assess the quality of a unit with a superficial glance at what is inside.
Auralic are recognised within the industry as one of the leaders in their field. Many manufacturers use their streamers to demo their equipment. They have spent years evolving there designs to reduce jitter, noise. optimise the USB interface and WiFi performance.
The "blown away brigade" 😅 ... perfect. 😘👌
Thank you. That was a bit a naughty of me 😉👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 "THIS REPLY IS THE BEST REPLY *WE'VE* **EVER** READ"
Hi Tarun, Glad you did this review as I’ve been considering a streamer and looked into Auralic. Just wondering your opinion on pairing it with my set up. I have Amp Rega Aethos, Speakers ATC scm19’s, Dac Chord Qutest.
Would I see the benefit of using a streamer of this value vs my current equipment.
Cheers
Phil
Hi Phil, your system is exactly at the level where I would expect to see a benefit from using the Auralic Aries G.1.1 as a streaming transport over something like a Bluesound Note 👍
Really nice review
Quick question - why haven’t you ever reviewed Naim products?
Thank you. I am reviewing one as I write this 👍
Great, definitely looking forward to that. Have a Naim Uniti Nova on this side.
Great review Tarun. Can I ask what delay setting you use on the G1.1 when connecting to the Pontus or Venus. The reason I ask is that my current dedicated streamer and Pontus result in the beginning of some tracks being missing/clipped e.g. Hey Nineteen by Steely Dan which
starts really suddenly. I have tried changing settings such as 'buffer before play' to no avail. If an Auralic streamer would solve this problem then I would definitely consider one. Cheers Peter
Sorry Peter, I can’t recall.
Thank you for another great review. I would really like to know how the Aries G1.1 compares to a Roon Server + Roon software in terms of sound quality. A comparison with some of the high-end "boutique" brands such as Pachanko or Taiko....
Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Great as usual
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
i have a Ares 2 DAC, Rega Brio, Rega RS1 speakers and a Bluesound Node 2i. unwise to spend 2.5k on a steamer. if only Arualic would make a dedicated streamer for $1k i would buy it. the Bluesound is good, but the Zen Stream was a bit better but unreliable. the problem is that no one will build a streamer that will be in the 1k-1.5k usd. price range that will beat the Bluesound Node. to get to the next level one must pony up for something like a Auralic. of course one could consider doing the PD Creative PSU to the Bluesound which i have not heard.
Thank you for sharing 😊
Great review, thank you. I am now left wondering what streamer to purchase, this appears overkill for my setup (DENAFRIPS ARES 12TH DAC supplying a CA AZUR 851A with a pair of FOCAL CHORD 716 speakers). What would you recommend instead as I note the AURALIC MINI is no longer current?
Bluesound and IFi are worth checking out 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 iFI ZEN Stream looks good. 👍🏻
Most of my music is come from steaming service, been Suprise when connected new usb and Ethernet cable. This didn't have sense to me but audiophile nerve take over and tested 7notes audio cables. o boy those cables make a difference now they mine.
Thank you for sharing 😊
Hello Tarun! I love your videos. You must be on the same wavelength as me! I stumbled upon your videos as I near the end of my system upgrading journey. It is now time for the streamer and DAC selection. I am looking at both the Auralic Aries G1.1 and the Denafrips Venus 2. I have not ruled out the Lumin streamers but have ruled out Aurenders. I currently have a Parasound Halo Hint 6, Martin Logan ESL-X speakers, Denafrips Ares II and a Bluesound node 2i. I love my speakers and know the incredible amount of detail they can provide. The amp is a beast with a low noise floor. The Denafrips was a big upgrade over both the Bluesound and Parasounds internal DACS. I am hooked on R2R DACS now. Just curious since you alway state upgrade enough based on what you have.... would the Auralic Aries G1.1 and Denafrips Venus 2 be the best choices? Should I go for the Terminator 2? I also will be able to afford these a few months apart so wonder which unit to buy first? Any advice??
Thank you my friend. I think your system will benefit from what the Pontus will bring. I think going for the Terminator may not be the best use of funds. Give the Pontus at least 200hrs of use before judging. It has a horribly long run-in period. I would live with the Pontus for a while before upgrading your streaming transport. Then you will be able to honestly evaluate the benefits the Aries G1.1 brings. I expect to be significant over the Node 2i 👍
"Blown Away Brigade" HAHA. How abut the "Snake Oil" wranglers?
Glad you enjoyed that one 😊
Why is an internal IP address which is behind NAT is dangerous to display?
Because, well, you know, he's just talking nonsense 🙂
Thanks! As an A/V buff this would be more than my system would need unless I were to move into separates and that would be $10K- $123K lol
Understood 😉
Hi Tarun I have the Denafrips Venus for nearly a year. It’s connected to a Cambridge cxc cd transport and the cxn steamer. I have been think for a while to replace the Cambridge cxn with the Auralic Aries g1.1 can you tell me how you have them connected via usb or coaxial ? Also do you have any problem with intermittent dropout in the music.
Keep up the great work.
Thank you you Rodney. The Aries G1.1 sounds better through USB rather than SPDIF. I experienced no dropout issues 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks Tarun hope to get it soon
The biggest upgrade has been knowledge shared by people like yourself!
Thank you Martin. Much appreciated 😊👍
Hi Tarun, My current setup is:
Source - Tidal
Network Transport - Bluesound Node 2021
DAC - Denafrips Venus 12th
Preamp - Denafrips Athena
Power Amp - Kinki Studio EX-B7 mono blocks
Speakers - Focal Diablo Utopia Color Evo III
Need your kind advice on whether to add Denafrips Gaia DDC to the setup or change the Network Streamer to An Auralic G1.1 / G2.2 or Hifirose RS130
Great Question! Im in a similar spot. Have you received any visibility on your next step?
Thanks for the great review and advice on this DAC/ Steamer .
I was considering the Hegel H190 , however would like to know if considering this Auralic DAC / streamer with the Naim Nair 3 ,would I get a better and higher streaming quality sound . Appreciate your reply - thanks
@@13thnotehifireviews7 thanks - so Hegel 190 ?
Or something else ?
If by "Nair 3 " you refer to the Supernait Three I'd never go back to Hegel.. I'd totally miss the grunt a Naim gets me
Hi vpm m, the H190 is a great allrounder. I haven’t tried the Auralic Altair G1.1 which is their streamer with built-in DAC. My priorities with upgrading are speakers, amp, DAC and source (streamer, CD player, etc.) in that order 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 My mistake and my sincere apology - I meant to ask if the Auralic Aries G1.1 (your Reviewed), is better DAC & Streamer than the one in H190 if it is then I am considering the Naim Nait 3 + Auralic Aries G1.1, Is this better choice or if the H190 ? Thanks in advance. Wishing you a great weekend.
The fact that the G1.1 wasn't a worthwhile upgrade on the Hegel 190 makes it a no go? Or does the Hegel just have a poor USB input?
As good as the H190 is, you need a system of a certain calibre to appreciate the benefits the G 1.1 brings 😊
Just placed my order for this G1.1, I didn’t like the software for the H105 Aurander.
Have you ever tried the Zen iFi streamer? I think you would be shocked. That’s also one reason I sent back the H105, it wasn’t that much of an upgrade. Let’s see how the G1.1 does against the $400 iFi Zen lol All going into pontes II connected to Iris DDC into tube preamp feeding a 300b amplifier using WE tubes. I’ll also try it paired with the Auralic Vega DAC.
Let’s see if this thing can compare to vinyl!
let us know
@@Hypofx I will, considering the G1.1 cost 10x more then the iFi network transport and my system already being very transparent with no bottle necks. I will say the Auralic Vega DAC is better then the stand alone Pontus II but when paired with the Iris DDC it’s on the same level just different with more options to customize the listening experience. The software Interface for streaming is killer with the Auralic steamers and much better then others on the market by far. Let’s just say it’s going to be very hard to beat what I have now in terms of sound quality that’s on the same level as vinyl, 3-D layering, soundstage and overall magical experience I have now. If it does it will be Nirvana!
@@stevenpaul3886 thanks yes i have a pontus goes to athena and looking for a streamer upgrade
@@Hypofx Just got this G1.1 in and it’s an endgame unit. Buy it you will not be sorry! Build quality is unreal, operates flawlessly big jump and I mean big jump and sound quality from the iFi. I’m this case you are getting what you pay for 100% You can set EQ, speaker placement distance and you can even burn CDs to the internal hard drive! Wow!
@@Hypofx Just got in the G1.1, It’s amazing! The build quality is outstanding! This unit is my end game Streamer, it blows the iFi Zen out of the water and is better the Aurander H105, you do get what your paying for here 100%. It has room EQ, speaker placement compensation and you can even burn a cd to the internal hard drive! It’s u real…
DSD 512 heck yeah!!!
Oh yes 😊
Nice review. :) However if I may suggest an improvement to the channel.. The text inserted between sections of the video could be improved. They look fuzzy and vague. Especially the shadow. My laptop screen could also be part of the explanation?.. It's not that sharp.. Besides that, the video quality is spot on. Have a good weekend. :)
Thank you Thomas. It is not fuzzy when I play it back 🤔
@@abritishaudiophile7314 It's probably my laptop screen then. I'll have a try with another screen, and see if it helps.
Great video. But my system is not as good as yours. My amp is the Musical Fidelity 5. I would love to have a streamer with lots of storage like this one but my budget is much less maybe 1/3 or so. Can you recommend anything?
Thank you. The Innuos Zen Mini Mk3 would be worth checking out 👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 thank you
@@abritishaudiophile7314 it’s also too expensive
Hi Tarun - I am very interested in your feedback seeing as you also have the Venus II. I currently have the Cambridge CXN v2 connected to a PrimaLuna 400 and Dynaudio Evoke 50s. My issue is that the SQ, although good, comes across more as a flat wall, lacking depth and airiness. I was told it is likely the CXN as the bottleneck and upgrading the streamer would be a big improvement. After watching your review, I am curious if you would recommend the Aries G2 with the Venus II over the Altair? My dilemma is that with the Venus II upsampling the CXN, just how much of an improvement could I expect by replacing CXN with the Aries G2 ($7500 CAD)
Hi Paul, I am inclined to agree. I think the CXN is the likely bottleneck. It would be worth getting the Venus II to give you the depth and openness you seek. If it is still lacking then the CXN isn’t up to the task as a transport and I would upgrade to something like an Aries G1.1 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thanks Tarun. I do have the Venus II. It's connected to the CXN via digital coax out to bypass CXN's internal DAC. So at this point, the Venus II is doing the D/A conversion yet the sound stage remains somewhat wall like. So this is my question... do you feel that the Aries G1.1 would be a major improvement over the CXN seeing as I have the Venus II. Cheers!
@@paulgomirato202 I haven’t compared them but it should be 😊
In terms of streamers what would be a decent option somewhere in the middle between this Auralic and the sub 1k all in ones? I have a Node into a Hegel h80 and currently looking at upgrading to a standalone DAC. Harbeth speakers.
I would stick with the Node Ian. I doubt there will a sub £1k streamer than will be much better 😊
I am naturally skeptical so when I went from a Cambridge Audio CXA 81 to a Peachtree GaN400 my Tekton Troubadours sounded significantly more detailed including more bass control I was surprised. I wasn't sure I'd hear the difference but it was very obvious. I use a CXNv2 as my streamer, DAC, and preamp. I'm looking to buy separates eventually. I'm very curious if I'll hear differences. This Auralic Aries G1.1 might just be that separate streamer I've been looking for.
Thank you for sharing Tyler 😊
Question: would you feel this streamer would pair well with Hegel H390 and would it be worth it using the internal DAC on the h390? Thank you
I would need to get the H390 in to find out 😊
Is this a good choice pair with Denafrips ares 2 or go for Auralic Altair , appreciated your advice
Both a great devices. It depends on what you want from you device 😊
For a while, I had a MiniDSP SHD running Dirac connected to a Pontus. It sounded really really good. I wonder what kind of results you'd get putting something like a MiniDSP in between your Auralic and your Venus..
Thank you for sharing. The Aries G1.1 has a 16 band parametric EQ so you wouldn’t necessarily need to add another link in the chain 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 that makes sense. I guess I would just take the EQ corrections made by Dirac and apply them to the parametric EQ within something like the Aries. I wonder how closely they would match and if I could notice any discernable difference doing it this way.
@@jonathansmoore as long as the frequency response is approximately the same there is an argument to say that it shouldn’t be audible. However, this doesn’t account for phase shift or timing delays that all DSP engines add.
That said, we don’t hear individual frequencies but the response is smoothed out over a series of bands. We are more perceptive in picking out differences at lower frequencies rather than higher frequencies. It is explained in this article 😊
community.sw.siemens.com/s/article/critical-bands-in-human-hearing
@@abritishaudiophile7314 I appreciate the thoughtful response.
Hi Tarun, thank you very much for the review. Since the Auralic Aires G1.1 is a high quality streamer, can we get better sound by connecting to the Iris via USB and then to the Pontus II via I2S, or if we connect the Auralic directly to the Pontus II via AES, will it be the best option to get the best sound?
The Iris will improve the sound 😊
Thank you Tarun.
Has anyone compared performance of this product to the Lumin U2 mini?
that the power plant I was using on my receiver for phono was actually making things sound worse!
Okay 🤔
Hi, I have a EAR Yoshino DAC and top of the range JMR speakers and am currently using a RP4. Someone has offered to sell me a second hand Aries G1. Do you think it would make a real difference? I've heard the sound is a bit more clinical than Lumin streamers? Any advice would be welcome.
@@tonydare7614 hard to say without looking into it. I am not familiar with your DAC 😊
Hi Tarun, I have Auralic Aries and Ifi zen stream. They both are still working fine. However, I am still looking to try and upgrade. Do you think you are able to review the new Ifi neo stream? Thanks
IFi is proving elusive but I hope to in time 😊