2. digital
  3. 191677-161121

Lumin D2 or Aurender N100H

Both are discontinued 2015-2018 models and currently selling at a similar price ($1200) used.  Features wise: 

  1. - Digital output: BNC only for D2; USB 2.0 only for N100H
  2. - Power supply: 35VA external LPS for D2; 35VA internal LPS for N100H
  3. - Build-in SSD: None for D2; 2TB for N100H
  4. - Build-in DAC: Wolfson dac for D2; none for N100H
  5. ...

I'm less concerned about the differences in limited features and more curious about your preference or pick in terms of (1) sound quality, (2) app usability as a streamer and (3) should I be saving up (up to $2500) for newer models if the upgrade in sound is justifiable? I’d appreciate your thoughts, especially from those with experience using both.

 

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cleeds
5,959 posts
 

Many people praise Aurender. I bought an N100H new from an authorized dealer and it was not a good experience. Hardware issues, software issues, and support from just one guy at Aurender ("Ari") whose "remedies" included things I'd told him I'd already tried. I finally dumped it at a loss. Good riddance.

ghdprentice
7,046 posts
 

I own two Aurrender. I still have my N100 (it may be an H)… it sounds great and has performed flawlessly for many years.

fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,629 posts
 

I have seen more complaints here about Aurender than Lumin. Those that have had no problems extoll the virtues of spending so much coin but that don't change the facts.

lanx0003 OP
858 posts
 

Just found a blind test on Node and D2 w/ SBooster LPS, which exactly the same streamer setup I have an eye on.  With his friends five of them conclude there is no sonic difference bet. Node and D2 heard from the system he has for the audition, in terms of soundstage, treble, midrange and bass.  Although not expensive, I think this is a decent system that is capable of revealing details. Yes?

Krell 300i amp
B&W 801 D4
Kimber carbon cable 11 Gauge
All power plugs are audio quest hurricane
All interconnects are audio quest fire

https://community.roonlabs.com/t/blind-test-3000-lumin-d2-with-sbooster-sounds-the-same-as-a-600-bluesound-node/187123/57

My impression on the lower end (sub 1k) streamers is Node is at most on par with Ifi Zen Streamer that I am very familiar with. If Lumin D2 does not sound better, what is the point of upgrading?

aldnorab
173 posts
 

Love my Aurender N200. It sounds amazing and the app is very easy to use. One of my requirements was that the component didn't feel like using a computer. The Aurender does a great job of operating like a piece of hifi equipment. Highly recommend Aurender and the N100 is a great place to start. I'd prefer USB to BNC connector. Had a Sonic Frontiers DAC and there were far less cable choices than USB.

Thanks,

aldnorab 

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