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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!
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tomic601's avatar
tomic601
12,913 posts
 
great news, sales = ongoing support and hopefully s/w upgrades.....


buellrider97
392 posts
 
Hi guys , thanks for the info. I’m looking at Aries Mini vs Bluesound Node2 to purchase . I’m currently using a laptop via usb to a Schiit Yiggy ( prior was a Bifrost ). Rogue Pre, Had Inspire, Zu Omen . I want clarity vs warm but not too bright . And comments would be appreciated. But as far as USB cables . I tried 3 under $20, an Audioquest Cinnamon and now a Cardas Clear . I could tell a significant difference . I think that one ABSOLUTLY MUST try for themselves. I feel the same with Interconnects. Less , but still matters with speaker cables and power cords . Just haven’t had as big a change as the upstream stuff . So on a budget I still have replaced/ upgraded every connection in my system . What helped me tremendously was someone with a similar system that had tried dozens of cords on loan and directed me based on his experience. Thanks for any additional SQ comments . Mike B. 
2psyop's avatar
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2psyop
1,595 posts
 
Both the Aries and Bluesound have a strong following and neither one would be a bad choice. I think some give the Aries the slight advantage with SQ, but I have the Node 2 and it really sounds terrific compared to my CD player with a Benchmark DAC1 or Schiit Bifrost Uber. I guess you would have to read through the features and comments on both companies. Much is dependant on what you want to do, or can do. I am a fan of MQA, but there are a great many that find all the faults with it.
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