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

  • 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.

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.

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.

Aurender Content Server (ACS)

  • Positioning: Serves as a centralized content management solution with features like CD ripping and library management.
  • Description: The ACS models, such as the ACS10, are designed for audiophiles who need robust library management and centralized storage, offering features like metadata editing and duplicate detection. Unlike the A1000, which focuses on playback, the ACS series excels in content management.

Digital Output Network Transports

  • Positioning: These transports are designed to enhance the performance of any DAC with high-quality digital output.
  • Description: Aurender's digital output transports, like the N20, provide a jitter-free signal rendering, enhancing the performance of connected DACs. While the A1000 integrates a DAC for direct playback, these transports focus on delivering the best digital signal to external DACs.

AP20

  • Positioning: An all-in-one digital source and integrated amplifier, offering a complete audio solution.
  • Description: Combines a high-performance Class D amplifier with Aurender's best DAC, providing a powerful and integrated audio solution. Unlike the A1000, which is a network player, the AP20 includes amplification, making it perfect for users who want a simplified setup without separate components.
See all the brand's products

Read the reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer's notes

A200 replaces model A100 as Aurender's most compact and economical Analog Output Network Player. Offering superlative audio performance and the renowned Aurender user experience, A200 is an ideal choice for the music lover building a high-performance yet economical digital audio system.
  • Dimensions: 13.8"W x 14"D x 3.8"H (3.3" w/o Feet)
  • Weight: 21.2 lb
  • Front Panel Display: 6.9" 1280 x 480 Wide IPS Color LCD
  • Power Supply: Full Linear, 1x50W (CPU), 1x25W (DAC), 1x25W (FPGA)
  • CPU: Intel Low Power Quad Core
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 2X 2.5" Compartments (User-Installable Storage)
  • System SSD: 240GB NVME
  • USB Ports: 2X USB 3.0 (Rear)
  • Ethernet: Double-Isolated Gigabit LAN
  • Power Consumption: Play (26W), Peak (30W), Standby (6.5W)
  • DAC Chipset: AKM 4490 Single-Stereo
  • Supported Format: PCM: Up to 32-bit / 768 kHz; DSD: Up to DSD256, + DSD512 (Converted to PCM)
  • Digital Inputs: 1X Coax RCA, 1X Optical/Toslink
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Average Price
$5,001-$10,000
Used Products
40
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
117
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Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
13
Founded
2010

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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi
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What if you spend a bit more?

A20
15000
15000
/
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.
Check on Amazon
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The A20 is a full-fledged, high-performance server, streamer, preamplifier, DAC, and headphone amplifier
  • Excellent DAC with a natural, detailed, clean, and neutral sound
  • Impressive storage capabilities with slots for user-installable SSD or HDD drives and limitless storage options by integrating content from a NAS or external USB drive
  • The Aurender Conductor App is highly user-friendly, with an intuitive interface and is easy to navigate

Product Considerations

  • The A20 is not compatible with Roon
  • The A20 does not have built-in CD ripping functionality
  • The A20's sound signature might not immediately impress
  • There is a learning curve for maximum functionality

Takeaway: The Aurender A20 is a great option for audiophiles seeking a digital hub that covers both headphone and loudspeaker listening and whose music collection is already digitized. It has excellent sound quality, hardware, software, and customer service.

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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
A20
page
Product Page
N20
12500
12500
/
7
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.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Integrates the functions of a music server, a content streamer, and a LAN port, consolidating multiple devices into one for simpler setup
  • Has two internal, hard-drive storage bays, which allow users to customize on-board music storage according to their needs (up to 16TB with SSDs)
  • Employs an all-digital, phase-locked-loop subsystem (ADPLL) with an oven-controlled crystal oscillator (OCXO) to reduce jitter, improving the musical presentation
  • Supports various digital file codecs, including native DSD512, handled by a dedicated Intel Quad-Core CPU
  • Exceptional build quality, with a minimalistic, stylish design and a large, high-resolution (1920 x 480 pixels) AMOLED display for album art and information
  • Outstanding customer service is available

Product Considerations

  • Does not have a built-in DAC, requiring an external DAC for audio output
  • Roon is not fully supported as a RAAT device, only as an Airplay device
  • The Android version of the control app may not be as user-friendly as the iOS version
  • HDDs/SSDs not included, so the cost of storage is not part of the overall price
  • The Aurender N20 does not offer a hardware remote, which might be a problem for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Aurender A20: The N20 is a superior streamer for upscale rigs due to its dedicated functionality and higher parts quality, whereas the A20 is an excellent choice as a streamlined hifi
  • Vs Aurender W20SE: The reviewer believes the sweet spot in the Aurender lineup is the N20 unless dual AES output is needed, in which case—the W20SE would be better
  • Vs Small Green Computer CAPS 20.1: The Aurender N20 is a state-of-the-art server with great sound quality for plug and play, while CAPS 20.1 needs maintenance
  • Vs Linn Klimax DSM/3: Unlike the Linn Klimax DSM/3, the N20 comes with two internal hard-drive storage bays

Takeaway: The Aurender N20 is a well-designed music server/streamer with high-quality sound that offers a streamlined user experience and integration of various digital audio functions. It is a solid choice for audiophiles seeking simplicity, stability, and excellent sound quality in a digital source component.

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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
N20
page
Product Page
KALA 50
19000
19000
/
4
Reviews
Antipodes

The KALA 50 is the flagship of the KALA range, with an electronic design that is derived from the Kala 50, delivering compelling musical performance at a more affordable level. Every panel in the KALA 50 is precision machined from a thick solid plate of premium alloy for a perfect fit and finish, and outstanding vibration control.

Antipodes is a hifi audio brand specializing in audiophile-grade music servers and streamers that reduce jitter and noise. The brand uses a proprietary Linux-based operating system for audio playback to maintain high signal purity.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Robust and solid build quality
  • Excellent sound quality, reproducing music with high fidelity
  • Gives music life, verve, vigor, and emotional involvement
  • Antipodes optimizes the power supplies to increase speed and lower noise
  • Offers a platform for the best available applications

Product Considerations

  • The burn-in process can take a long time
  • Worldwide chip shortages forced a few changes to the design, and the beta software would not be bug-free
  • The USB output is considered the worst in terms of sound quality and receives the least amount of isolation and reclocking
  • Removing Roon local option can be a problem for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Aurender N20: The K50 replaced an Aurender N20
  • Vs. Innuos Statement: The Innuos Statement has a warm and smooth signature
  • Vs. HiFi ROSE RS150b: The K50 provides interconnectedness between sounds that the HiFi ROSE does not
  • Vs. Antipodes K41 and K22: Combining an Antipodes K41 and K22 will make for a two-box K50 if one is so inclined

Takeaway: The Antipodes K50 is a well-built music server that brings soul back into a digital system. It creates a natural and inviting sound that can help you rediscover your favorite music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Antipodes is a hifi audio brand specializing in audiophile-grade music servers and streamers that reduce jitter and noise. The brand uses a proprietary Linux-based operating system for audio playback to maintain high signal purity.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
KALA 50
page
Product Page
Edelweiss MPS-X
11290
11290
/
3
Reviews
Playback Designs
Playback Designs, founded by DSD pioneer Andreas Koch, stands out for using custom-programmable FPGA chips instead of standard DAC chips, and for converting all digital inputs to DSD format to reduce distortion. The brand's 1-bit DACs feature their proprietary PLINK optical connection system to isolate from electrical noise, along with separate power supplies for each channel, helping make even lower-resolution files sound exceptionally good.
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Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Achieves ideal isolation for best performance using PLINK, PDFAS clocking technology, and separate chassis with high-quality linear power supply
  • Offers superb sound quality whether streaming from UPnP or using local or streaming Roon RAAT sources
  • Delivers a neutral, fast, lively, and expressive sound that is also finely nuanced, fluid, spacious, and gently svelte
  • Has a direct, rhythmic, fast, pure, and impactful sound, combined with deep tonal saturation and an enveloping soundstage
  • The MPS-X is designed to allow multiple clock signals for the streamer, network bridge, etc, but it then re-clocks all digital signals through the proprietary high-precision clock generator before sending the signal out to the DAC via its fiber optical interface (PLINK)

Product Considerations

  • PLINK is not 100% compatible with Nagra Link, there is skipping/glitching on certain sample rates
  • Aftermarket feet could alter pacing and drive, so it is best to start with the MPS-X's own feet

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Aqua LinQ, the MPS-X excels in being liquid, free-flowing, and spacious, particularly possessing more distinct layering in the depth plane, while the Aqua LinQ is more immediate and direct

Takeaway: The MPS-X offers excellent streaming audio performance with great sound quality and isolation, improving the sound of music servers and offering further potential within a Playback Designs system. It is an expertly crafted device that should make listening to music even more enjoyable.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Playback Designs, founded by DSD pioneer Andreas Koch, stands out for using custom-programmable FPGA chips instead of standard DAC chips, and for converting all digital inputs to DSD format to reduce distortion. The brand's 1-bit DACs feature their proprietary PLINK optical connection system to isolate from electrical noise, along with separate power supplies for each channel, helping make even lower-resolution files sound exceptionally good.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit our
Edelweiss MPS-X
page
Product Page

What else competes at this price?

A15
8400
/
Released
2022
Aurender
The revolutionary A10 changed the paradigm for Aurender by introducing our first music server/streamer with a built-in DAC. A15 is the upgraded replacement of A10, featuring many new features and audible improvements. And, while it's a true high performance all-in-one Digital Source Component, it is priced to be highly competitive with comparable separate DAC & Transport setups.
Check on Amazon
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

  • Beautifully crafted with smooth lines, elegant heat sinks, and available in silver or black finishes
  • Features a large, super clear, and easy-to-read 6.9-inch display
  • Offers onboard storage for media files via two user-accessible storage bays on the rear panel
  • Dual-mono AKM4490 DAC configuration delivers exceptional channel separation and a remarkably low noise floor
  • Supports Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect, and Internet Radio

Product Considerations

  • Premium price point
  • Storage drives are not included
  • Might be feature-rich for users seeking a simpler solution

Takeaway: The Aurender A15 is a stunning and precision-crafted piece of gear, packed with technology, that delivers convenience and sound quality. It allows one to enjoy music at a level rarely achievable.

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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
A15
Page
Product Page
N200
6300
/
Released
2022
Aurender
N200 represents a milestone in terms of exceptional sound quality, unique feature set, and high value. In order to make N200 accessible to as many music lovers as possible, we have omitted the expensive OCXO-controlled digital audio board in favor of a simple, dedicated USB audio output.
Check on Amazon
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

  • Easy to install storage, with a tool-less design using thumbscrews for 2.5in HDDs or SSDs
  • A 240GB NVMe SSD is used for caching music for playback, which prevents glitches
  • A super capacitor UPS is included for an orderly shutdown in case of mains failures

Product Considerations

  • No built-in digital-to-analogue conversion, so it needs to be used with a DAC or amp/preamp with onboard conversion
  • Not Roon-compatible

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Aurender A30: The N200 is half the price, but gives away little apart from an optical disc-drive

Takeaway: The Aurender N200 is a well-designed network audio transport with easy storage installation and a caching system for smooth playback. It is built to avoid glitches and can be a great addition to an audio system.

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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
N200
Page
Product Page
Wavelight (Server)
6000
/
Released
2023
Rockna
The Wavelight audiophile music Server – or the WLS – is your perfect source partner for Wavelight/Wavedream dacs, or just any dac, especially if equipped with a I2S input. In addition the I2S output, USB, AES/EBU, SPDIF, and optical output (Toslink) are available.
Check on Amazon
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.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
Wavelight (Server)
Page
Product Page
KALA 22
9000
/
Released
2024
Antipodes
The KALA 22 delivers the compelling musicality that Antipodes Server-Streamers are famous for, with a full array of signal outputs, at a more affordable cost. Every panel in the KALA 22 is precision machined from a thick solid plate of premium alloy for a perfect fit and finish, and outstanding vibration control.
Check on Amazon
Antipodes is a hifi audio brand specializing in audiophile-grade music servers and streamers that reduce jitter and noise. The brand uses a proprietary Linux-based operating system for audio playback to maintain high signal purity.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very organic and lifelike sound quality
  • Excellent customer support with immediate responses and remote system login assistance
  • Easy to set up and use, with a simple drop-down menu to select desired player (Squeeze, Roon, HQ Player, etc.)
  • Stable and reliable performance, without freezing or connection issues
  • Provides tighter and fuller bass compared to some other streamers

Product Considerations

  • Requires several hundred hours of burn-in for optimal performance
  • Not recommended for DSP-heavy use (HQ Player) without upgrading to K41 or K50 models

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFi ROSE streamer, Antipodes K22 provides more insight and better separation of voices in a chorus
  • Vs HiFi ROSE streamer, the K22 has more organic sound quality and dynamic ebb and flow
  • Vs HiFi ROSE streamer, the K22 provides tighter and fuller bass compared to the softer–bloated bass of the HiFi ROSE

Takeaway: The Antipodes Audio K22 is user-friendly and has commendable customer support, plus it renders music in a lifelike and organic manner. This streamer can bring a new level of musical enjoyment to a system.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Antipodes is a hifi audio brand specializing in audiophile-grade music servers and streamers that reduce jitter and noise. The brand uses a proprietary Linux-based operating system for audio playback to maintain high signal purity.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
KALA 22
Page
Product Page
N5
7409
/
Released
2023
Melco
The Melco N5 Digital Music Library is the next generation of the acclaimed Melco concept for extreme sound quality from both music stored within the N5, networked music, and external streaming services when used with a USB-DAC. All Melco Digital Music Libraries play music into either Network Streamers or will play into USB-DAC, and can also be configured to operate without an Ethernet network.
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Melco Audio specializes in digital music servers and network switches designed specifically for audiophile applications, featuring unique elements like a 1.5MB buffer for stable data transmission and industrial-grade USB ports. Their products are designed to be user-friendly for audiophiles without computer expertise, while offering technical advantages like optimized Ethernet output and exceptionally quiet operation for enhanced music clarity.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Wonderfully highly resolving and neutral delivery that is nimble, articulate, and expressive when streaming to a network endpoint
  • A second network connection labeled "Player" can be used to connect the streaming endpoint directly to the server, resulting in a gentler, cleaner, purer sound
  • The N5 can also be connected directly to a DAC via USB, and also functions as a Roon Ready endpoint
  • Sleek looks and very solid build quality

Product Considerations

  • When using USB output, the delivery can have a controlled and analytical quality to it, making one appreciate the performance more cerebrally than emotionally
  • The Melco N5 preferred the Ansuz T2 footers, but the Oladra really benefits from StillPoints
  • The Melco app is based on mConnect

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Antipodes Oladra (using UPnP mode): The Oladra sounds richer and creamier, while the Melco sounds tighter and crisper
  • Vs Melco N100: N5 has levels of crispness, solidity, refinement, and timbral realism that the N100 cannot reach
  • Vs Antipodes Oladra (using USB): The Oladra sounds considerably smoother and creamier than when streaming to the C1.2 or Aqua LinQ

Takeaway: The N5-H50 Digital Music Library is a superb UPnP music source that is able to stream music to a network endpoint. The server has a resolving and neutral delivery with sleek looks and build quality.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Melco Audio specializes in digital music servers and network switches designed specifically for audiophile applications, featuring unique elements like a 1.5MB buffer for stable data transmission and industrial-grade USB ports. Their products are designed to be user-friendly for audiophiles without computer expertise, while offering technical advantages like optimized Ethernet output and exceptionally quiet operation for enhanced music clarity.
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Visit
N5
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

  • 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.

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.

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