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
- 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.
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
L2
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
- Internal Storage: No drives, 4TB (2x 2TB) or 8TB (2x 4TB) 2.5" SSD
- Supported Audio Formats: DSD Lossless (DSF, DIFF, DoP), PCM Lossless (FLAC, ALAC, WAV, AIFF), MP3
- Connections: USB 3.0 Micro Type B, 2x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45, 2x Gigabit SFP, 2x USB 3.0 Type A
- Power Supply: Internal 100-240V AC auto-ranging
- Dimensions: 350mm (W) x 350mm (D) x 60.5mm (H)
- Weight: 6kg
- Finish: Black anodised aluminium or Raw anodised aluminium
Description
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!
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:
- Lumin products are designed with a focus on simplifying the user experience through their proprietary Lumin app, offering a comprehensive set of features and granular control over playback and resampling options without requiring additional third-party software in most use cases.
- The brand utilizes all-aluminum chassis construction across its product line, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and enhanced rigidity and shielding.
- Lumin incorporates Leedh Processing volume control, allowing for a preamp-less system configuration and potentially minimizing signal degradation.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Lumin D3
- Positioning: The entry-level model in the Lumin lineup, offering a cost-effective introduction to high-quality music streaming.
- Description: Features a compact all-aluminium chassis, which enhances damping performance compared to the previous D2 model. Uses the Sabre ES9028PRO DAC, providing up to DSD256 and PCM384 playback, making it suitable for users seeking high-resolution audio without the premium price of higher-end models like the T3X or X1.
Lumin U2 Mini
- Positioning: A mid-range transport-only model designed for users who already own a DAC and want to enhance their digital streaming setup.
- Description: Features Lumin's new processing system in a compact chassis, offering flexibility with upsampling and downsampling capabilities up to DSD256/PCM384. Provides five types of digital outputs, including USB, making it a versatile choice for those who need a transport to pair with their existing DAC, unlike the all-in-one players like the D3 or T3X.
Lumin T3X
- Positioning: A mid-to-high-end model that builds on the success of the T3, incorporating features from Lumin's flagship products.
- Description: Includes a toroidal linear power supply and optical fibre networking, features typically found in higher-end models like the X1. Uses dual ES9028Pro SABRE DACs for dual-mono operation.
Lumin U2
- Positioning: A high-end transport model aimed at audiophiles who require a dedicated digital transport to pair with their high-quality DACs.
- Description: Features an all-in-one chassis with a linear power supply and fibre network for noise isolation, similar to the flagship X1. Supports DSD512 and PCM768 playback.
Lumin X1
- Positioning: Lumin's flagship model, representing the pinnacle of their music player lineup.
- Description: Features dual ES9038PRO SABRE DACs and optical fibre networking, providing complete isolation from network noise. Supports native DSD512 and PCM768 playback, offering the highest audio quality in the lineup.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
76
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
78
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
9
Founding Year
2012
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.
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
Lumin
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.
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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
U2
5000
/
Released
2022
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.
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.
Product Page
Product Page
NAGRA
Streamer
4950
/
Released
2024
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.
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