Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- The Auralic Aries S1 offers high-quality streaming at a relatively affordable price point, making it a great choice for those who value sound quality
- The design is exquisite, neat, and half-width, featuring a classy display and is beautifully made
- It functions as a network bridge, seamlessly integrating with Auralic's Lightning DS platform, offering reliable hardware and app support
- The Aries S1 is equipped with the powerful Tesla G3 streaming platform, offering improved processing and memory capabilities
- It offers versatile connectivity with standard digital inputs/outputs, including AES and supports various streaming services
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for Apple iOS, which may deter Android users
- It does not have built-in WiFi, relying solely on Ethernet connection
- Roon certification may not be immediately available
- The S1 is not a DAC, preamp, nor does it have a headphone output
- The optional PSU S1 power supply is an additional cost
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Auralic Aries S1 is good enough for the Chord Dave, unlike the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- The combination of the S1 with the PSU S1 comes very close to the Aries One, and possibly surpasses it
Takeaway: The Auralic Aries S1 is a well-engineered streaming processor that provides high-quality streaming for audiophiles already invested in a good DAC. It is easy to use, has a stylish design, and integrates seamlessly with various streaming services.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
Altair
- Positioning: Positioned as an all-in-one digital source in Auralic's lineup.
- Description: Offers a comprehensive set of features, including a high-performance DAC, network streaming, and local file management, making it ideal for users new to network-based digital audio. It combines the streaming capabilities of the Aries with the DAC performance of the Vega, but at a more accessible price point, making it suitable for those with budget constraints or smaller setups. Unlike the standalone Aries and Vega, provides a one-box solution, which is perfect for users seeking simplicity and space-saving without needing separate components.
Aries
- Positioning: Serves as a streaming processor and transporter, designed to enhance existing DAC systems.
- Description: Excels in providing high-resolution streaming capabilities, making it a great choice for users who already own a DAC and want to improve their network audio setup. It offers advanced streaming features and digital outputs, but lacks a built-in DAC, which differentiates it from the Altair and Vega.
Vega
- Positioning: Auralic's high-performance DAC with streaming capabilities, focusing on sonic excellence.
- Description: Stands out with its superior digital-to-analog conversion, offering exceptional sound quality for discerning listeners. It features advanced technologies like ORFEO Class A output modules, which are not present in the Altair, providing a richer and more detailed sound.
See all the brand's products
Read the reviews
[{"title":"AURALiC Aries S1 Streaming Processor Review","link":"https://www.stereonet.com/uk/reviews/auralic-aries-s1-streaming-processor-review","source":"StereoNET","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Auralic Aries S1 streamer + PSU option","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuDM1ARW1_o","source":"The Hans Beekhuyzen Channel","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Bit Player: Why Auralic's New Aries S1 Streaming Processor Hits the Digital Spot!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bD2uIwT4tYI","source":"Hi-Fi Riff","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"ARIES S1 Review by StereoNet","link":"https://us.auralic.com/blogs/news/aries-s1-review-by-stereonet","source":"us.auralic.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"AURALiC ARIES S1 Streaming Processor review","link":"https://www.hifi.blog/auralic-aries-s1-streaming-processor-review","source":"hifi.blog","datePublished":""},{"title":"AURALiC Aries S1 review - One of AURALiC's best!","link":"https://soundgallery.com.au/auralic-aries-s1-review-one-of-auralics-best/?srsltid=AfmBOooWM91lJHs4almcrJKuIenRnoPsPE-2fTg3LUAGL4Ev0xuaQyOg","source":"soundgallery.com.au","datePublished":""},{"title":"AURALiC Aries S1 review - One of AURALiC's best!","link":"https://soundgallery.com.au/auralic-aries-s1-review-one-of-auralics-best/?srsltid=AfmBOoqoYP9WbrscOBEbyZiYHVJskBSyayQHNfYAnKxg3F-w9_MnkmdW","source":"soundgallery.com.au","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Aries S1
images
No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
ARIES S1 has the flexibility to connect music stored locally, or from online services such as Amazon Music Unlimited, KKBox, TIDAL, Qobuz. Our advanced Lightning streaming platform lets you take advantage of features like On-Device Playlists, Memory Caching, Gapless Playback, and Bit-Perfect Multi-Room functionality.
Manufacturer Specs
- Streaming File Formats: Lossless: AIFF, ALAC, APE, DIFF, DSF, FLAC, OGG, WAV and WV
- Sampling Rates: PCM: 44.1KHz to 384KHz in 32Bit, DSD: DSD64(2.8224MHz) to DSD512(22.57892MHz)
- Audio Inputs: Digital Input: Coaxial, Toslink (2), USB Audio
- Audio Outputs: Digital Outputs: AES/EBU, Coaxial, Toslink, USB Host
- Network: Wired Gigabit Ethernet
- Power Consumption: Standby: <3W, Sleep: <10W, Playback: 25W max
- Dimensions: 20.7cm x 29cm x 8.5cm (8.1 x 11.4 x 3.3 in.)
- Weight: 4.0kg (8.8 lbs)
Visit Manufacturer Site
Average Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used Products
41
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
103
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
8
Founded
2009
Our take on the brand
AURALiC is a hifi audio brand focusing on streaming audio sources with user-friendly interfaces. The company uses its proprietary Lightning DS music playing app to provide easy integration and customization of your music library.
Brand Page
Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
Visit Full Brand Page
Used
AURALiC
What if you spend a bit more?
A200
6300
6300
/
8
Reviews
Aurender
Aurender is a hifi brand focused on digital music servers that offers unique storage configurations with user-installable drives up to 16TB, particularly beneficial for audiophiles who prefer streaming services. Their servers feature specialized components like Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators for AES/EBU output and dual-mono DACs with analog R2R stepped-attenuator volume controls, which minimize noise and jitter for superior sound quality.
Expand Details
.svg)
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combines music server, streamer, and DAC functionalities into an all-in-one system
- Features user-installable storage with two bays for 2.5' drives
- Equipped with the AKM 4490 DAC chipset, known for musicality and a rich, smooth sound
- Comes with the Aurender Conductor app, which is simple, intuitive and stable for browsing and control
- Uses a caching system with a 240GB SSD to ensure stable playback and minimize stress on storage drives
Product Considerations
- The overall unit size is fairly large
- Requires a stable network connection for streaming
- Storage drives are for 2.5 inch drives, rather than the more common and affordable 3.5 inch desktop size disk drives
- Internet Radio and Spotify Connect are available on the app, but cannot be cached because they're considered a constant stream
- May be overkill for casual listeners
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Aurender A100, the A200 runs cooler, boots up faster, and has a larger screen—the A200 also offers two user-installable drive bays for large libraries of local files
- Compared to AURALiC Vega G1, the A200 offers a deeper and more introspective look inside each song, but lacks horizontal soundstage expansiveness and 3D imaging effects
Takeaway: The Aurender A200 is a versatile digital audio solution that offers a combination of excellent sound quality, user-friendly software, and flexible storage options. It could be the perfect choice for audiophiles seeking a streamlined and high-performance music server and streamer.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aurender is a hifi brand focused on digital music servers that offers unique storage configurations with user-installable drives up to 16TB, particularly beneficial for audiophiles who prefer streaming services. Their servers feature specialized components like Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators for AES/EBU output and dual-mono DACs with analog R2R stepped-attenuator volume controls, which minimize noise and jitter for superior sound quality.
Visit our
A200
page
Product Page
Wavelight (Server)
6000
6000
/
6
Reviews
Rockna
Rockna Audio is distinguished by its proprietary DAC chips and hybrid ladder topology, which work together with advanced clock systems to reduce jitter and deliver natural sound reproduction. The brand's flagship Wavelight DAC features an analog volume control and chameleon-like sound signature that adapts its tonality to each recording.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Natural and realistic sound, not 'tubey' but refined
- Organic warmth and a touch of 'tube magic'
- Technical abilities combined with a natural, alive sound signature
- Exceptional transient response with inner detail and lifelike information
- Many inputs and outputs available
Product Considerations
- The sound can initially be very 'digital' before properly conditioned, requiring a couple of days to achieve its optimal sonic signature
- A reviewer noticed a subtle midrange bump, which may cause congestion in super-complex music compared to higher-priced DACs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bricasti M3: Wavelight is slightly warmer sounding with somewhat deeper bass, and overall, the Wavelight is preferred for its musicality at a lower price point
Takeaway: The Rockna Wavelight is a well-built DAC/preamp that provides a balanced, natural, and engaging listening experience. It offers high-end performance with unique technologies and features.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Rockna Audio is distinguished by its proprietary DAC chips and hybrid ladder topology, which work together with advanced clock systems to reduce jitter and deliver natural sound reproduction. The brand's flagship Wavelight DAC features an analog volume control and chameleon-like sound signature that adapts its tonality to each recording.
Visit our
Wavelight (Server)
page
Product Page
Pulsar
6649
6649
/
6
Reviews
Innuos
Innuos is a Portuguese hifi brand that handcrafts digital audio components with advanced power supply designs and custom-built components, including their signature PhoenixUSB Reclocker for improved USB signal quality. Their proprietary InnuOS operating system and Sense 2.0 music app are praised for delivering more natural sound than Roon, while offering unique features like Assisted CD Ripping and rule-based music import engines.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Employs a PhoenixUSB Lite Reclocker, which significantly impacts the sound of digital files sent to the DAC
- Features ARC6 active rectification with Mundorf capacitors and a 300VA audiophile-grade toroidal transformer, designed for vibration damping and magnetic screening
- Uses Single-Level Cell SSD technology for the operating system, offering better durability and lower noise
- Delivers precise timing and rhythm, as well as highly articulate bass
- Excellent clarity and detail retrieval, revealing more nuances in music
- Requires a network switch and Ethernet cables designed for audio in mind, to hear its potential
Product Considerations
- Sense app lacks the rich metadata and information found in Roon
- Does not offer Spotify or Amazon Music streaming services natively
- Sound can occasionally be a little lean, erring on the side of accuracy rather than warmth
- Special rubberized feet are good for isolation, but the unit cannot be slid around easily without peeling the feet off
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Lumin T1: Pulsar delivers a more highly focused presentation, while the T1 initially seems more open and airy
- Vs Antipodes Oladra: Pulsar is built to exceptional tolerances, like the Oladra, but for considerably less money
- Vs Innuos Statement Next-Gen: Innuos Pulsar's sound is different versus the Next-Gen's, yet not inferior—the Next-Gen is better in dynamics and intensity
Takeaway: The Innuos Pulsar is a fantastic streamer for those who primarily stream their music and want a high-quality, easy-to-use device with excellent sound. Its focus on detail, clarity, and rhythmic precision makes it a worthwhile addition to any audiophile's system.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Innuos is a Portuguese hifi brand that handcrafts digital audio components with advanced power supply designs and custom-built components, including their signature PhoenixUSB Reclocker for improved USB signal quality. Their proprietary InnuOS operating system and Sense 2.0 music app are praised for delivering more natural sound than Roon, while offering unique features like Assisted CD Ripping and rule-based music import engines.
Visit our
Pulsar
page
Product Page
Aavik S-180
7200
7200
/
4
Reviews
Aavik
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Aavik S-180 produces a vital and alive sound with strong immediacy and impressive low-level resolution
- It is easy to use and has a reliable and consistent control app (Aavik Stream Control App)
- Sound quality is best when streaming 'local' sources, characterized by an extended frequency response and a large, drawn-to-scale soundstage
- The Aavik S-180's cabinet is well-built and shares the same design with other Aavik components, allowing for aesthetically pleasing stacking
- Good looks makes it a no-brainer to purchase along with another Aavik component
Product Considerations
- The Aavik app is based on Conversdigital's mconnect software and demands an iPad to work
- The red LED display, while excellent, can be too bright in a less-than-bright room and can be an eye-catcher
- The remote control is an ordinary Apple remote
- It does not include mains cables
- Absence of a regular power cord
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Innuos Statement: The Innuos Statement is more energetic, wiry, immediate, contoured, open, investigative, and spatially more enveloping—with deeper and harder-hitting bass
- Vs fidata HFAS1-S10U: The Aavik S-180's aesthetic fits right in-between the fidata HFAS1-S10U (warm, fluffy, round, thick, calm, intimate, tonally rich) and the Innuos Statement (resolution, quickness, openness, raw power, spatial stunts)
Takeaway: The Aavik S-180 is a revealing and engaging streamer that provides a relaxed but detailed sound, and it works very well with other Aavik components. It is worth consideration for those seeking a high-end streamer that is easy to use and sounds great.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aavik Acoustics crafts amplifiers using natural composite materials inspired by musical instruments, with their cabinets designed to enhance audio potential. Their products feature unique noise-cancelling technologies including Tesla coils and dither circuitry, while offering distinctive features like their U-300's input-specific gain adjustment system and the U-380's signature "aged-in-wood" bass sound.
Visit our
Aavik S-180
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Streamer
4950
/
Released
2024
NAGRA
30 years after the then state of the art Nagra D, the first high resolution digital recorder, and almost 20 years after the Nagra CDC reference CD player, Nagra is releasing a streamer. In a compact format but packed with features, it can play all current high resolution formats
Nagra Audio, a Swiss brand with roots in professional recording and film (including two Oscars for soundtracks), brings watchmaking-level precision to their hifi equipment through extensive in-house manufacturing of components like transformers. Their HD Preamp and Classic DAC showcase unique technologies, including virtual battery power supplies and PCM-to-DSD conversion, while their commitment to quality is demonstrated by rejecting over half of their tested valves to maintain exceptional standards.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Nagra streamer is built from a solid block of aluminum, making it hefty and solid
- Simple to use, plug and play, and works out of the box with Tidal and Spotify Connect
- Delivers clarity, resolution, musicality, and an immersive experience
- Creates a big, three-dimensional soundstage with excellent instrument separation
- Offers a clean and dynamic sound, providing an emotionally engaging listening experience
- Ethernet connection is required, as it does not stream via Wi-Fi
Product Considerations
- Relies on third-party apps like mConnect for some functions, as it lacks a dedicated Nagra app
- Limited output options, particularly for systems not using a Nagra DAC, with no USB audio output
- If one does not have a Nagra DAC, coaxial output is the only option, which has limitations in file quality compared to N-Link
- Lacks physical controls such as a screen, buttons, or a remote control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the HiFi ROSE RS-130, the Nagra streamer has a more natural, liquid, and delicate rendering, while the RS-130 is more punchy, sharp, and incisive with the imaging
- Compared to the Aurender N10, the Nagra streamer extracts finer details and provides a more three-dimensional, structured presentation, while the N10 sounds slightly fuller and more powerful
- Compared to the Lumin U2 Mini, the Nagra Streamer provides more air between instruments, stronger bass, better dynamics, and a smoother—more natural sound with an analog feel
Takeaway: The Nagra Streamer is a well-built, minimalist device that is easy to use with great sound. It's especially good for those with Nagra DACs due to the N-Link connection, creating a great match.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Nagra Audio, a Swiss brand with roots in professional recording and film (including two Oscars for soundtracks), brings watchmaking-level precision to their hifi equipment through extensive in-house manufacturing of components like transformers. Their HD Preamp and Classic DAC showcase unique technologies, including virtual battery power supplies and PCM-to-DSD conversion, while their commitment to quality is demonstrated by rejecting over half of their tested valves to maintain exceptional standards.
Visit
Streamer
Page
Product Page
N150
3500
/
Released
2022
Aurender
N150 is the most accessible and economical entry point to the "Aurender Way" of enjoying music with a stable, reliable, great sounding digital source component. Although it was designed with affordability in mind, in true Aurender fashion, its audio performance decidedly belies its cost. The N150 is the source to choose when upgrading from a cd player, computer, or budget brand streamer to discover the world of true high end, high resolution playback.
Aurender is a hifi brand focused on digital music servers that offers unique storage configurations with user-installable drives up to 16TB, particularly beneficial for audiophiles who prefer streaming services. Their servers feature specialized components like Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators for AES/EBU output and dual-mono DACs with analog R2R stepped-attenuator volume controls, which minimize noise and jitter for superior sound quality.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional build quality with machined aluminium chassis
- Sounds controlled, rich, and quiet without being dull
- Built-in UPS protection and a sophisticated linear power supply
- The Aurender app works particularly well, especially on the iPad, for library management and playback
- Versatile storage options
- Offers only USB audio out
Product Considerations
- The Android app is a bit basic
- The 3-inch amoled display is not a full-color type with artwork
Takeaway: The Aurender N150 is a well-built, high-performing music server/streamer that delivers exceptional sound quality. With its user-friendly app and versatile features, the N150 is a great choice for audiophiles seeking a premium streaming experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aurender is a hifi brand focused on digital music servers that offers unique storage configurations with user-installable drives up to 16TB, particularly beneficial for audiophiles who prefer streaming services. Their servers feature specialized components like Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators for AES/EBU output and dual-mono DACs with analog R2R stepped-attenuator volume controls, which minimize noise and jitter for superior sound quality.
Visit
N150
Page
Product Page
U2
5000
/
Released
2022
Lumin
After the huge success of our sweetspot price/performance LUMIN T3, LUMIN U2 brings the same design philosophy to a transport for the first time. Taking chassis construction methods, linear power supply design and dual-network from the multi-award-winning LUMIN P1, the all-new LUMIN U2 brings high-end digital right into the heart of the LUMIN range.
Lumin Music, known for launching the world's first DSD-capable streamer, develops all hardware and software in-house to ensure seamless integration across their product line. Their digital sources are praised for delivering warm, analog-like sound quality, with features like upsampling to DSD 256 and dual-drive music servers that require zero setup configuration.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional accuracy, lifelike tonality, engaging musicality, and very low noise
- It presents the music with accurate, defined, and nuanced reproduction of timbre
- Excellent build quality with solid aluminum panels and a high-quality feel
- The linear power supply provides a generous bass and treble
- It is capable of decoding all current digital music file formats
Product Considerations
- The Lumin app, while good, had a couple of minor bugs
- It needs at least 300+ hours to sound its best, as the sound improved notably after this time
- The display window on the U2 might be too small for some users
- Upper midrange slightly recessed, a quality which might suit many an overzealous system
- Reticent midrange might also account for why the kickdrum lacked some oomph—it might not be the best choice for heavy hard rock or industrial metal
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bluesound Node: The Lumin U2 offers a more open sound
- Vs EverSolo DMP-A6: The Lumin will bring a more open sound
- Vs Lumin U2 Mini: The U2 has much more life, breath and warmth, a more mature sound, more refined over the Mini with more warmth and solidity, and the stage was absolutely amazing, richer, denser, and deeper and has just a bit more magic
Takeaway: The Lumin U2 is an exceptionally well-designed and engineered streaming transport, blessed with neutral and natural tonality. The U2 delivers fantastic sound into systems where it may well be the premier component and set you up for the next decade or more, delivering further free improvements.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Lumin Music, known for launching the world's first DSD-capable streamer, develops all hardware and software in-house to ensure seamless integration across their product line. Their digital sources are praised for delivering warm, analog-like sound quality, with features like upsampling to DSD 256 and dual-drive music servers that require zero setup configuration.
Visit
U2
Page
Product Page
A1000
3500
/
Released
2024
Aurender
Offering outstanding audio performance and a plethora of new features, the A1000 is the perfect choice for music enthusiasts seeking an immersive and versatile digital input/output system. Say goodbye to complex connections and software limitations. The A1000's all new assortment of connectivity options make it a breeze for anyone to pickup and enjoy.
Aurender is a hifi brand focused on digital music servers that offers unique storage configurations with user-installable drives up to 16TB, particularly beneficial for audiophiles who prefer streaming services. Their servers feature specialized components like Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators for AES/EBU output and dual-mono DACs with analog R2R stepped-attenuator volume controls, which minimize noise and jitter for superior sound quality.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional sound quality is delivered through the AKM4490REQ Dual-Mono DAC
- It can be used as a music server, streamer, or dedicated DAC since it has a variety of digital inputs
- User-installable storage allows for customization
- Versatile connectivity options including HDMI ARC
Product Considerations
- An Ethernet cable is required, as it does not have built-in Wi-Fi, though it has Bluetooth/Wi-Fi antenna for Apple Airplay and Chromecast
- The single drive slot might be limiting for extensive local libraries
- There might be a learning curve for maximizing all features
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- PrimaLuna DAC is mentioned as an alternative external DAC
Takeaway: The A1000 is a versatile network player with great sound quality and multiple connectivity options, which makes it a good choice for audiophiles. It is designed to integrate well with both streaming services and local file playback.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Aurender is a hifi brand focused on digital music servers that offers unique storage configurations with user-installable drives up to 16TB, particularly beneficial for audiophiles who prefer streaming services. Their servers feature specialized components like Oven-Controlled Crystal Oscillators for AES/EBU output and dual-mono DACs with analog R2R stepped-attenuator volume controls, which minimize noise and jitter for superior sound quality.
Visit
A1000
Page
Product Page
L2
3500
/
Released
2023
Lumin
The perfect partner for LUMIN owners who wish to store their own music collection! The effortless operation of LUMIN L2 belies its advanced features and unrivalled flexibility. With a 4-port audiophile-grade network switch on board, its two optical fibre SFP ports and two RJ45 copper ports L2 can streamline and enhance your network!
Lumin Music, known for launching the world's first DSD-capable streamer, develops all hardware and software in-house to ensure seamless integration across their product line. Their digital sources are praised for delivering warm, analog-like sound quality, with features like upsampling to DSD 256 and dual-drive music servers that require zero setup configuration.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Combines a dual-drive music library with an audiophile-grade network switch
- Requires zero configuration, making it plug-and-play
- Features a 4-port network switch with two SFP fibre ports for complete electrical isolation, reducing network noise
- CNC aluminum chassis provides excellent shielding and reduces vibrations
- Lumin provides detailed instructions for consumer installation of SSDs
Product Considerations
- The 8TB HDD version uses NTFS format, which may require additional software for Mac users
- Rear overhang may impact cable attachment and removal on some devices, mostly XLR connectors
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Melco N1, the L2 seems to have 'fixed' most of our issues with music storage', while the Melco N1 runs Minimserver, which is a different take on music server and storage
- Compared to Aurender ACS100, the Lumin L2 is like a dedicated NAS, while the Aurender ACS100 adds CD ripping but does not offer network switching
Takeaway: The Lumin L2 is easy to set up and use, and it helps improve sound quality by reducing network noise. If someone wants a simple way to manage their music library and improve their audio system, this could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Lumin Music, known for launching the world's first DSD-capable streamer, develops all hardware and software in-house to ensure seamless integration across their product line. Their digital sources are praised for delivering warm, analog-like sound quality, with features like upsampling to DSD 256 and dual-drive music servers that require zero setup configuration.
Visit
L2
Page
Product Page
Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
Product Strengths
- The Auralic Aries S1 offers high-quality streaming at a relatively affordable price point, making it a great choice for those who value sound quality
- The design is exquisite, neat, and half-width, featuring a classy display and is beautifully made
- It functions as a network bridge, seamlessly integrating with Auralic's Lightning DS platform, offering reliable hardware and app support
- The Aries S1 is equipped with the powerful Tesla G3 streaming platform, offering improved processing and memory capabilities
- It offers versatile connectivity with standard digital inputs/outputs, including AES and supports various streaming services
Product Considerations
- The Lightning DS app is only available for Apple iOS, which may deter Android users
- It does not have built-in WiFi, relying solely on Ethernet connection
- Roon certification may not be immediately available
- The S1 is not a DAC, preamp, nor does it have a headphone output
- The optional PSU S1 power supply is an additional cost
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Auralic Aries S1 is good enough for the Chord Dave, unlike the Cambridge Audio MXN10
- The combination of the S1 with the PSU S1 comes very close to the Aries One, and possibly surpasses it
Takeaway: The Auralic Aries S1 is a well-engineered streaming processor that provides high-quality streaming for audiophiles already invested in a good DAC. It is easy to use, has a stylish design, and integrates seamlessly with various streaming services.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Want to see more similar products?
Head on over to our Search page to browse our entire database. Find the perfect hifi gear for your system.
Visit Search Page
How to buy
Digital Sources
.svg){kind=icon}
