An Upconverting Streamer? Auralic Aries G1.1

hi-fi+ reviewer Jason Kennedy takes a look at the Auralic Aries G1.1 streamer, which can upconvert music files for better output.
For more about this product, visit the following link:
us.auralic.com/
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[@bocrux]

Thank you, especially for giving us a tour of the software interface.

[@andreaslindmark2928]

It does not upsample everything to 32bit by default, I see that you have resampling activated, it's the blue icon just above the song title.

[@Vsread21]

I'm surprised you didn't spend any time comparing WiFi vs. Ethernet sound quality for yourself, particularly since Auralic has a unique point of view on this subject (i.e., that WiFi is better), and especially since there are so few WiFi-enabled streamers in the middle/upper-market. PS. your comment that WiFi is susceptible to more jitter is incorrect from a technical perspective. Also, for anyone who's interested, the whole reason why Auralic suggests WiFi is better is because Ethernet cables are extremely sensitive to noise (which is why some people spend thousands on ethernet cables, optical converters, network switches, etc. which is all in an effort to try to minimize that innate Ethernet noise issue). Auralic's solution is to avoid the ethernet cable all together. If it works, that's a pretty compelling (and ultimately cost-saving solution for someone trying to build a true HiFi). Has anyone here tested that thesis with the G1 or G1.1? If so, what was your upstream equipment?

[@adamhindle9215]

Note: the Lightning DS app is iOS only, so a problem if you want to use an Android phone to control your music. Fine if you have an iphone, or buy an ipad to go along with it (or use Tidal connect) but for me this would be a significant impediment.

[@johnrossall4696]

Jason, interesting video. The G1.1 is on my list of possible upgrades. Currently running an ifi Zen Stream through a Qutest into a Sugden A21SE. It sounds sublime with many genres of music, but I think it could be better?

[@Vsread21]

I'm running an iFi Zen (with iPowerX PSU) into a Holo Audio Spring 3 KTE and it's amazing combo. I know there aren't any WiFi-enabled streamers priced in between the iFi Zen and the Auralic Aries G1.1 that would offer enough of a sonic upgrade to justify buying, but I just haven't pulled the trigger on the Auralic yet. If you end up getting one, I'd love to hear what you think!

[@domenicopietrodangelo9576]

For me who tried it presents some gaps. The fact that changes the resolution from 16 to 32 bit without being able to intervene manually I don't like. The fact that of the 4 presets you cannot exclude them so you must still have one active. Add the USB library is cumbersome and slow especially with many songs.

[@Benvos]

When you say the ‘4 presets’, do you mean the filters? If so, you can exclude them, just turn them off which can be done easily from the now playing menu. The 16-32 change is concerning, I own the G2.1 and had been looking at tube DACs which are limited in their sample rates, so I assume they wouldn’t work.

[@domenicopietrodangelo9576]

​@@BenvosI am referring to these 4 presets: Precise - Dynamic - Balance - Smooth. I would have added OFF

[@martinvegas1327]

How does this compare to the ARIES G2.1?

[@markhammond7044]

So if vibration alters the clock frequency, have you measured this ? Or are you guessing? If so, where is the measurement ?

[@13thnotehifireviews7]

It’s terrible value for money and there are products cheaper and better.

[@NawMan357]

What would you recommend?

[@kenwk2283]

Eversolo😂