Mola Mola Tambaqui Roon vs Separate Streamers


I'm currently using my Mola Mola Tambaqui with Roon streaming Tidal.

Has anyone added a separate streamer such as the Auralic Aries G2/2.1 or the Lumin U1?  If so, was differences did you hear with the streamer addition?  Is it worthwhile?  

I'd love to hear feedback from other Tambaqui owners.

Thanks!

calgarian5355

@fastfreight the Grimm took me 2 minutes to set up. In many ways it simplified my set up, since it’s a server as well as streamer/renderer - in Roon terms, it’s both the core and the endpoint. The Grimm guys are working on their own software so for now it’s Roon only (a plus in my book). It also let me sell my Gigafoil and fancy Ethernet cables — they no longer made a material difference to me. Great clock so don’t even need to think about a reclocker. Only use AES into your DAC, don’t bother with the Grimm USB.

As far as how it is — for me personally, it puts a big smile on my face. I’ll leave it at that. Something you need to listen to, to appreciate.

Sorry If this takes the thread slightly off topic (OP seems more interested in Auralic)…but I have heard the Grimm and Tambaqui together, it’s a well tested combination in part because the Tambaqui designer used to work at Grimm (but didn’t design the MU1 as far as I know).

I started using an Aries G2 4 years ago, and upgraded to a G2.1, which does sound better than the G2.  My system includes a Nucleus => switch => G2.1 => Tambaqui (which I’ve had for 3 years).  The Aries makes a big difference versus connecting a DAC directly to the Nucleus via USB or to the switch via ethernet.  The Aries adds a lot of detail to the music, you notice the improvements immediately.  With this set up every small change makes a noticeable difference; from power cables for the Tambaqui and Aries, to adding an external linear power supply for the Nucleus and switch, to DC and ethernet cables, to the type of network switch.  My most recent upgrade was to add a Sean Jacobs ARC6 DC4 linear power supply replacing the power supply in the Aries.  I was able to A/B the modded Aries with a stock version and the improvement in detail and 3 dimensionality of the music was for me well worth the considerable investment.

Hi Tony,  I went all in with Realization power cord and USB to my Tambaqui.

All my other cables are Elation.  I did initially hook up the Aries G2.1 with stock power cord and a cheap usb just to hear the improvement with the nicer cables.  And I did!.  Now I am waiting on the Sean Jacobs power supply as discussed by David above.  I have also ordered a custom umbilical for the power supply from Kubala Sosna.  Ken

Kubala Sosna Realization and Elation cables really do make a very easy to hear difference.  I use them throughout my system.  Some of these cables are made to order, we’re fortunate that K-S will do this.  

@metaldetektor So the Grimm would get rid of my Nucleus since it's the core as well?  If so, how are the Roon updates....seamless?  That's one thing I really like about the Nucleus....set it and forget it!  I was watching the Hans Youtube review and it looks impressive!  I would need to purchase the AES connector as well.  Which dealer did you purchase from?  It wouldn't hurt to enquire.  There are no dealers here in Canada it appears.

@davidyny @fastfreight  How does the Sean Jacobs connect up to the Aries G2.1?  I did a Google search and I see an internal power supply upgrade (hoer-wege) upgrade but couldn't find out how the Sean Jacobs would be wired in.  The Sean Jacobs is around $7400US?   Yes, power cords and cables all make a difference!  I have experience with the Kubala Sosna Emotion XLR and Emotion power cords.  They're excellent, but I find them to be a touch warm.  I'm guessing the Elation and Realization lineups are more extended and neutral.  I've been very happy with my High Fidelity Cables (out of business now, unfortunately).  I've tried even compared my entry level Reveal lineup to the Nordost Valhalla, and they were a better match in my system.....Everything in this hobby makes a diffference!