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
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Designed for low noise, both acoustically and electrically, improving sound quality
- Can rip CDs, find metadata, and store music on an internal hard drive
- Elegant design with dampening materials to minimize vibrations
- User-friendly interface for setup, maintenance, and music library management
- It can function as both a Roon Core server and player
Product Considerations
- Requires a separate DAC to output audio
- The Innuos Sense operating system and application were recently released and were still being actively developed
- High-end price point might not be suitable for all users
- If relying on heavy DSP, such as upsampling to DSD256, or very large Roon collections, it may not be for you
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- It is built specifically for high-quality music listening with separated components, compared to a regular computer/laptop
- When connected via Ethernet, it provided similar sound quality to the Brooklyn Bridge connected to the home network over the Accuvox SE switch
- It provides better sound than a Note 2i, providing a fuller and more massive sound—with larger space
Takeaway: The Innuos Zen MK3 offers a streamlined way to manage and play digital music with high quality, and is useful for those who want an easy-to-use and good-sounding music server. For Roon users, the Zen MK3 provides an easy, all-in-one solution to access Roon, without having to buy separate products.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Zen MK3
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
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Audio Outputs: USB 2.0 supporting USB Audio Class 2, DoP, Native DSD and MQA
- Connectivity: 2x RJ45 Ethernet, 1x USB 2.0 (DAC), 1x USB 3.0 (Backup)
- CPU: Intel Quad Core N4200
- Memory: 8GB DDR3 Low-Voltage RAM (4GB Dedicated for RAM Playback)
- Hard Drive: 1TB, 2TB or 4TB WD Red HDD
- Sample Rates: 44.1kHz, 48kHz, 88.2kHz, 96kHz, 176.4KHz, 192kHz, 352.8KHz, 384KHz, 768KHz, DSD64, DSD128, Native DSD up to DSD512
- Bit Depths: 16bit, 24bit, 32bit
- Power Consumption: 12W when idle, 15W peak
- Dimensions: 420mm x 340mm x 83mm (W x D x H)
- Weight: 9 Kg
Description
The ZEN Mk3 provides another leap in sound quality compared to the ZENmini with its integrated dual-linear PSU, isolated dual-ethernet ports and asymmetrical anti-vibration feet. The ZEN Mk3 represents tremendous value in digital audio performance.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- They emphasize a holistic approach to digital audio, demonstrated by their custom motherboards, focus on vibration control, and design of linear power supplies.
- Innuos products feature a USB output that incorporates a PhoenixUSB reclocker, designed to lower the noise floor and improve sonic precision when paired with a DAC.
- They customize their operating system, innuOS, to optimize performance, including selecting components and actively removing EMI sources.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Pulse Mini
- Positioning: The entry-level network music player in the Innuos lineup.
- Description: Offers a compact design with a custom-designed motherboard and Intel quad-core processor, making it a great starting point for those new to HiFi streaming. It supports high-resolution audio up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512, similar to the Zen Mini, but at a more accessible price point, making it ideal for small rooms or budget-conscious users.
Pulse
- Positioning: The mid-tier option in the Pulse series, offering enhanced performance over the Pulse Mini.
- Description: Features a custom RECAP2 LPSU power supply, providing improved sound quality with high-grade components like Mundorf capacitors. It includes upgraded digital outputs and 8GB RAM, offering better connectivity and performance than the Pulse Mini.
Zen Next-Gen
- Positioning: A versatile music server and streamer in the Zen series, offering modular storage and connectivity options.
- Description: Features a Gallium Nitride regulated power supply and a custom PreciseAudio mainboard, providing a pristine digital signal for enhanced audio performance. It offers modular architecture for storage and output, allowing customization beyond the capabilities of the Pulse series.
Zenith Next-Gen
- Positioning: A premium music server and streamer, offering advanced features over the Zen Next-Gen.
- Description: Includes an ARC6 NGaN Power Supply and a Core i7 processor, providing superior power and processing for high-end audio performance. It features a pSLC SSD for lower operating noise, offering a more refined sound than the Zen Next-Gen.
Statement
- Positioning: The flagship music server and streamer, representing the pinnacle of Innuos' offerings.
- Description: Features a groundbreaking Next-Gen Power Supply with 8 independent power rails and custom-designed components for unmatched audio precision. It surpasses the Zenith Next-Gen with its dedicated power supplies and re-clocking capabilities.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
55
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
108
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
10
Founding Year
2009
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.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
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Brand Page
Used
Innuos
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
Aurender
A200
6300
6300
/
5
Reviews
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
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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.
Product Page
Product Page
Rockna
Wavelight (Server)
6000
6000
/
6
Reviews
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
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Aurender
A15
8400
8400
/
2
Reviews
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
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Aurender
N200
6300
6300
/
1
Reviews
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
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.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
Aurender
N150
3500
/
Released
2022
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Aurender
A1000
3500
/
Released
2024
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Lumin
L2
3500
/
Released
2023
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.
Product Page
Product Page
Innuos
Pulse
3799
/
Released
2022
Providing a step-up from the PULSEmini, we engineered the PULSE by adding some significant improvements that increase its performance and how it sounds. For starters, PULSE raises the bar by integrating our new custom RECAP2 LPSU power supply, designed in collaboration with Dr. Sean Jacobs.
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
- Custom ReCap2 linear power supply
- Medical-grade filtered IEC terminal
- Use of an epoxy centre-filled high-grade toroidal transformer
- Over 40,000μF of Mundorf power supply filter caps
- 8GB of RAM
Product Considerations
- Pricey
Takeaway: The Innuos Pulse is a network player with a custom power supply and plenty of RAM. It is a good choice for streaming music.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
AURALiC
Aries S1
2998
/
Released
2024
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.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
Video review
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.
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