Auralic vs Aurender

@wjt3,  My Aurender N20 is connected to my Bricasti M21 DAC using both the USB connection and the AES/EBU connection.   After many listening, tests, I used the AES/EBU connection all the time (99%).   The Bricasti M21 DAC has several options but I use the ladder DAC setting all of the time because it sounds the best.  

My cables are the Audience Au24 SE+ USB Cable, one meter, Single connections at each end but two wires and the Kubala-Sosna Emotion AES/EBU cable, Balanced XLR (1 cable), 1.5 meters length.  

I use the Kubala-Sosna Expression Interconnect Cable (2 cables), XLR connections, 1.5 meter length to connect to my SimAudio 700i V2 integrated amplifier.   

   

When I was searching for a streamer, my top 3 choices were Lumin, Innuos and Auralic. I was interested in ones that could run Roon, so Aurender was not considered. I ended up with the Auralic Aries G2.1 from an authorized dealer. I installed a 2Tb Samsung EVO SSD with the assistance of instructions from the same dealer’s website. The Aries G2.1 also has a copper enclosure which required the removal of 10 more Torx screws. Overall, it was an easy install. Over time, I realized that Roon wasn’t better sounding than using Auralic’s Lightning DS software, so I didn’t renew Roon. The support of the Auralic community/forums, recent software and firmware upgrades and the sound quality have made me a satisfied camper. Of course my Holo Audio May KTE DAC helps too.

I think in the end, you’ll end up with an excellent streamer whether it’s an Auralic or Aurender. There is a dealer in So Cal that offers both brands, so they may be able to share their impressions. I’ve bought quite a few vacuum tubes from them, and they have been helpful. BTW, my Auralic dealer offers a 2 weekend in home trial. Happy listening!

thank you-=-