2. digital
  3. 129162-9000

Bluesound Node 2 vs. Auralic Aries Mini

Anyone have experience with both the Bluesound and the Auralic? Specifically, the user apps and their capabilities. I'm thinking about replacing my Squeezebox Touch to gain some newer technologies that allow higher bit rates and improved WiFi technology. My main concern is the WiFi and management capabilities, not the DAC as I'll use the digital out to drive an external DAC. I just want something that cleanly moves files from my PC library of primarily Apple Lossless ripped music and plays internet radio. I'd also like to be able to dabble with hi-rez formats, although I haven't taken much of a plunge there, yet. Streaming is not a big deal for me, but if the abilities are there that's no loss.

So, seems to me that the Node 2 and Aries Mini would both fit the bill. So it probably comes down to a matter of user experience with the control apps. Appreciate any thoughts!
Ag insider logo xs@2xdogmcd
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,913 posts
 
full line dealer Advanced Audio in Tacoma....selling out of them and the associated linear supply...
not the only place I have heard this but owning one, I am glad they are continuing it !!!!!!
tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,913 posts
 
Stereo Haven another full line dealer announces it 10/18/2017....
my guess is ???????
ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,312 posts
 
Clarification...
"Didn’t see mention of it." meaning, I didn’t see dropping the Aries Mini mentioned on the Auralic internet site. I don’t see it listed in the Audio Advisor on-line "digital" product offerings but do see the Aries Mini in the 2 most recent AA catalogs just received in the mail. I sent Auralic an inquiry. Will post their reply if I get one.

@mr_bill
Would you please elaborate on "It’s not discontinued. Auralic owner said so."?  Thanks.
mr_bill
347 posts
 
I’m pretty sure I read that someone contacted them and the reply was not discontinued. 

I’m glad you are contacting them. Then we can find out. 

I have mini mini with linear power supply and it is great. 


ghosthouse's avatar
ghosthouse
4,312 posts
 
No reply yet from Auralic.

Did just call sales at Audio Advisor. The sales rep I spoke to confirmed the Aries Mini is to be discontinued though he stated they continue to see a lot of demand for it. He did not know anything of Auralic’s future plans for the Mini, i.e., would it be be replaced by something else?...e.g., an upgraded model or completely new model.

Complete speculation on my part but I’m hoping Auralic has an improved version of the Mini in mind; e.g., Roon ready and MQA capable?  Not that either of these matter to me, personally, but this might signal an intent to provide ongoing support for the older model.  Again, total speculation on my part.  
More to discover