Bluesound Node 2 vs. Auralic Aries Mini

Also, within DACs there is a process where the 1) noise, RF/EMI, etc coming in on the digital data stream and is (hopefully) cleaned up a bit and 2) the bits are reconstructed to simulate an analog waveform in order to output an analog signal to the downstream analog audio gear. If there is data loss detected during the digital-to-analog waveform reconstruction process, algorithms are applied to try to interpolate (artificially replace) missing data in order to complete the affected slice of the waveform.

The more of 1) that the DAC has to deal with, the more that will slip through (nothing’s perfect) and effect the signal in the DACs digital/analog circuitry, thus degrading the sound.

The more of 2), the more artificial interpolation due to data loss upstream. This is an imperfect process and can audibly effect the sound quality that results.

Re: "the difference in sound character" of different digital cables can be influenced by the metallurgy of various metal conductors, the dielectric chosen, shielding (or not) and cable construction techniques to further eliminate noise, the integrity/efficiency of the binding of conductors to connectors, and perhaps most importantly IMO, the resulting impedance match/mismatch imposed on upstream and downstream components.

Dave

Aries Mini - better hardware

Node 2 - better software

It’s a wash in my opinion 

starting to wonder if you really are a red blooded capitalist if you dont celebrate and embrace chasing diminishing returns....ha

I have both a gen 1 Powernode and an Aries Mini but with the linear supply....and have heard Node gen 1 and Mini with a Lampizator DAC in brother in laws system. I think it is close and pick app you like better. W Mini being discontinued there are some deals out there but who knows how long Auralic will support it.

as for the resolving power of your system I really dont see why you think that is a value judgement downer against you or anyone....but hey we all have our viewpoints

Good comparison here https://www.audiostream.com/content/auralic-aries-mini

Hello @tomic601 

I was surprised to read your comment about the Aries Mini being discontinued.  I've been enjoying mine.  It has become the source of choice for most of my listening.  If you will, where did you read it was to be discontinued?  I just visited the Auralic site and didn't see mention of it.  Could have missed it, of course.  Please advise.  Thanks.