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
- Very nice sound quality when paired with the sPS-1000 power supply, which is distinctive from other source options
- Near universal support for high PCM and DSD sample rates and DAC drivers, potentially bypassing limitations of Mac and Linux drivers
- The Windows Edition (WE) with Audiophile Optimizer offers a solution for audiophiles who want custom hardware and software, but are not capable or do not want to go the DIY route
- Very nice build quality of both the sMS-1000SQ and the sPS-1000, which look like audio components
- The Linux-based version offers simple, easy-to-understand instructions for setting up the Vortexbox server and Logitech playback software
Product Considerations
- Setting up the sMS-1000SQ can be complex, as the SoundStage! Hifi reviewer needed tech support to get up and running
- The warranty is only for one year, which may be considered skimpy
- The Roon iOS interface can be a little slow when running RoonServer on the sMS-1000SQ
- While the SOtM server offers sonic advantages, the SoundStage! Hifi reviewer noted that it went way past the point of diminishing returns soundwise
- iPeng is a 3rd party app—not a dedicated app from SOtM
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HP Envy Laptop running Windows 7 and Roon, the sMS-1000SQ provides slightly better detail, tonal beauty, and harmonic richness—the computer server sounds a bit less defined, and the soundstage might be slightly more threadbare
Takeaway: The sMS-1000SQ is a good-looking, high-quality music server that offers a distinctive and enjoyable sound. With its support for various formats and potential to bypass driver limitations, it could be a great addition to a hifi system.
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
sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition
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
- OS: Windows Server 2012 R2 or Windows 10Pro
- Storage: 64G SSD standard, Optional max 8TB HDD or max 2TB SSD
- USB Output: Audio grade USB 3.0 port (tX-USBexp)
- Digital Output Format: 24bit/192kHz PCM
- Digital Outputs: AES/EBU, Coaxial, Optical
- Analog Outputs: Balanced (1.9Vrms), Unbalanced (0.95Vrms)
- Analog Output Format: 32bit/192kHz PCM
- THD+N: 0.005% > @ 1kHz
- Output Bandwidth: -3dB@100kHz
- Power Requirement: Input Voltage: +19Vdc, Power: Max 60W
- Operating Temperature: +10 ~ +30℃
- Storage Temperature: 0 ~ +40℃
- Operating & Storage Humidity: 10% ~ 90%
- Dimensions: 360×68×240(mm)
- Weight: 4kg
Description
The sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is a new kind of music server based on Windows OS instead of the original Linux OS based sMS-1000SQ. Compared to Linux based music servers, diversified compatibility and program support, user friendly operation and such convenient functions have ensured the wide popularity of Windows OS based music servers. After a longer period of research and testing, SOtM proudly announces the first of our Windows OS based servers which are significantly better than any existing Windows OS based servers on the market, SOtM's sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is unequaled and capable to deliver the best sound quality today.
The sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is a new kind of music server based on Windows OS instead of the original Linux OS based sMS-1000SQ. Compared to Linux based music servers, diversified compatibility and program support, user friendly operation and such convenient functions have ensured the wide popularity of Windows OS based music servers. After a longer period of research and testing, SOtM proudly announces the first of our Windows OS based servers which are significantly better than any existing Windows OS based servers on the market, SOtM's sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is unequaled and capable to deliver the best sound quality today.
Here are the key points of why the sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is so special, First, in order to fundamentally enhance the already great sound quality of the sMS-1000SQ, we chose to use the award-winning AudiophileOptimizer from Switzerland based Highend-AudioPC. The AudiophileOptimizer is gaining popular favor from audiophiles around the world. It is installed as the first piece of software to ensure the best sound quality possible. The Audiophile Optimizer specifically optimizes the Windows OS with only one goal in mind, to reproduce the highest sounds quality possible. In short, SOtM sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is Windows OS purified by the AudiophileOptimizer.
Second, the users can easily obtain high quality internet streaming service via ROON a...
Here are the key points of why the sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is so special, First, in order to fundamentally enhance the already great sound quality of the sMS-1000SQ, we chose to use the award-winning AudiophileOptimizer from Switzerland based Highend-AudioPC. The AudiophileOptimizer is gaining popular favor from audiophiles around the world. It is installed as the first piece of software to ensure the best sound quality possible. The Audiophile Optimizer specifically optimizes the Windows OS with only one goal in mind, to reproduce the highest sounds quality possible. In short, SOtM sMS-1000SQ Windows Edition is Windows OS purified by the AudiophileOptimizer.
Second, the users can easily obtain high quality internet streaming service via ROON a...
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:
- SOtM's products are known for their sleek, compact, and stylish aluminum enclosures, setting them apart from typical computer-like designs, and resembling attractive audio components.
- They use a Linux-based operating system (Vortexbox or Eunhasu OS) known for its audio playback capabilities, paired with well-established software like Logitech Media Server or Roon, offering a mature user experience.
Select products
Select product comparisons
sHP-100
- Positioning: A combined USB DAC and headphone amplifier designed for flexible connectivity in modest setups.
- Description: Offers diverse input options and quality digital-to-analog conversion with proven chips, ensuring clean sound in compact environments. Compared to the more specialized functions in the phono equalizer or flagship digital systems, it serves users needing versatile performance in smaller rooms on a moderate budget.
sPQ-100PS
- Positioning: A specialized phono equalizer aimed at optimizing analog vinyl playback.
- Description: Supports multiple EQ graphs and cartridge selections, allowing users to tailor its performance to different vinyl records with precise, natural tone reproduction. Compared to the digital processing in higher-end systems like the sMS-2000 or power amplification of the sPA-1000, it focuses on dedicated vinyl setups.
sPA-1000
- Positioning: A fully balanced Class D power amplifier suited for demanding audio systems.
- Description: Uses advanced power stabilization and balanced circuitry to achieve natural sound with precise control, delivering detailed performance in mid-to-large room environments. Compared to the compact functionality of the sHP-100 and the digital sophistication of the sMS-2000, it meets the needs of users looking for robust amplification with higher build quality.
sCLK-OCX10
- Positioning: A master clock generator developed for high-end digital audio systems.
- Description: Produces a pure 10MHz sine wave clock output with ultra-low phase noise and selectable impedance, thanks to its dedicated analog design refined over many years. Compared to devices focused on signal processing like the sMS-2000 or amplification like the sPA-1000, it serves audiophiles who need tight synchronization and precision.
sMS-2000
- Positioning: An integrated high-end digital audio system configured as the flagship for immersive musical experiences.
- Description: Brings together premium components including a dedicated USB host card, Ethernet interface, high-grade clock module, and custom power supply to deliver exceptional depth and clarity. Compared to the focused roles of the sPA-1000 and sCLK-OCX10, it offers comprehensive functionality and superior performance suitable for large, sophisticated systems.
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Avg. Product Price
$2,501-$5,000
Used For Sale
2
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
323
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
11
Founding Year
2008
Our take on the brand
SOtM is a hifi brand that develops its own ARM processor boards specifically for audio, avoiding the sound quality issues common in ready-made processors used by other manufacturers. Their products, including the sMS-200 network player and sPQ-100 phono preamp, stand out for their ultra-low noise technology and rare impedance-matching features, while maintaining a focused approach by eliminating unnecessary features.
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?
First, we don’t just use advanced technologies like ultra-high-speed digital hardware, precision audio clocking, or noise filtering—we develop them ourselves with a deep understanding of how each element affects sound quality. For example, our proprietary power electronics for audio circuits and custom-designed oscillators play a critical role in delivering our distinctive sound.
Second, while many brands prioritize marketing, we invest heavily in R&D. This means our products may not always be the most widely advertised, but they are built on a solid foundation of innovation and long-term vision. Rather than making minor upgrades, we aim to create fundamentally better products with each release. That’s a philosophy that consistently earns us loyal users around the world.
What's your approach to customer support?
At SOtM, we take customer support seriously. Customers are encouraged to first contact their local dealer or distributor, as they are trained to handle most issues and can provide service in the customer’s native language. However, if further assistance is needed, customers are always welcome to reach out to us directly. When a customer experiences an issue, we aim to respond quickly, diagnose the problem accurately, and offer a solution that minimizes any disruption. We go above and beyond by offering firmware updates, personalized setup help, and sometimes even remote access support to ensure the best possible experience.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Some of our go-to pieces include:
- Stravinsky – The Firebird Suite (Finale): Great for dynamics and layering.
- Copland – Fanfare for the Common Man: Perfect for testing impact, timing, and space.
- Mahler – Symphony No. 2 "Resurrection": A true challenge for any system, with massive scale and emotional intensity.
We also enjoy film scores for their emotional engagement and wide frequency content. Ultimately, we choose tracks that are musically moving and technically revealing—regardless of genre.
What other products pair best with yours?
Since we produce everything from digital sources to amplifiers and cables—essentially all components except speakers—we typically use speakers from brands like Focal and Magico in our reference systems. All other components in the system are SOtM products, allowing us to demonstrate the full potential of our technology in a fully optimized environment.
From our interview with
May Park
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Brand Page
Used
SOtM
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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
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.
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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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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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