This is an interesting question. I have not compared the N20 to the NG but I did compare the N20 to the Innuos Pulsar. It was in a dealers showroom so the audition only lasted a couple of hours with components I really wasn’t that familiar with. But I ended up buying the Pulsar which I guess says it all for me. If you like the sound of your Pulse (and Sense) you might try listening to the Pulsar if you haven’t already. I have not had a Pulse in my system but I did compare it to the Pulsar and the Pulsar is a big, big step up.
Aurender N20 versus Innuos Zen NG
Yes, I am addicted to this hobby, and I am enjoying it.
Based on some posts that I read here, I tried a DH Labs Silver Sonic D-110 AES/EBU Digital Cable connecting my Innous Pulse with the Bricasti M1S2 DAC. I a/b tested this cable versus the Innuos Phoenix USB using Pine Tree Audio USB cords and also Cardis Clear USB cords. I heard essentially no difference between the Pine Tree and Cardis Clear cables with the Phoenix USB, and without it. The Phoenix USB was definitely an improvement over not having it in the system.
However, I was amazed at the difference I heard with the DH Labs Silver Sonic D-110 AES cable versus the Phoenix USB. After several days of a/b listening I sold the Phoenix USB for just a bit over what I purchased it for.
My preamp is the LTA MicroZOTL Level 2. I have committed to upgrading to the Level 3 in a couple of months. The next item on my upgrade path will be my streamer. The Innous Pulse is nice, but I know I can do better. I am not pleased with my Synology NAS system for my CD files. I need a better solution. The SACD player is still in play for the time being until I find a better file solution.
I appreciate the Innuos Sense app. So much better than any other I have tried. I have heard good things regarding the Conductor app as well. I have several friends that have abandoned their lifetime memberships with Roon so I am not inclined to explore that rabbit hole.
The Innuos Zen NG looks great according to all I have read. Multiple dealers have told me they can detect no difference between the Zen NG and the Zenith NG, and that the Statement NG is better, but only for the most extreme systems.
The Aurender N20 is approximately the same price as the Innuos Zen NG when configured similarly (2 TB member and AES upgrade for the Zen NG). The higher level Aurender players have similar feedback from dealers, in that they are a bit better than the N20, but only in the absolute pinnacle of systems. The Aurender is a slightly better deal used, but only because there are essentially no Zen NG units available since it is still so new. The N20 is a few years out and the ones that are available are typically from people that have upgraded with the Aurender family.
I am certain there are a few members that been able to compare the Zen NG with the N20. I am looking for your opinions. It is proving to be difficult to have both systems here at the same time to do a proper a/b test. At best I will be able to a/b either unit with the existing Pulse which I anticipate should be no contest.
Your thoughts and suggestions? Am I missing any other units to look at? Please do not suggest any units that need to run Roon. I will not mess with that.
Thanks!
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I just did an inhouse demo of the N20 vs Pulsar, I couldn't get a Zen next-gen. My key takeaway was that the Pulsar was more detailed, forward in the room and leaner than the N20. The N20 was notably thicker and smoother, bigger bottom end and less sparkle up top. This may be a non-issue but I preferred how the N20 connected to internet radio and Airplay (etc.), the Pulsar was finicky. They are very different sounding units. Good luck and cheers! |
@rick_n thanks for the info. Initially I listened to the Pulse plus the Phoenix USB and compared it to the Pulsar. In the system I listened to them in, not mine, there was very little difference. The group of us were split regarding which sounded best with some saying the Pulsar was best, and the other saying they were essentially even. I was in the latter group and purchased the Pulse and Phoenix used. Only later did I discover the improvement with the AES cable over the USB box and cables. The Pulsar would be a solution except that want my CD files accessible, thus the N20 or Zen NG. The Zenith Mk 3 was a consideration, but it seems to be more similar to the Pulse in terms of sound. I would like a step up while also solving for the file management.
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+1 @ghdprentice An accurate description of the differences between the sound palette of Aurender N20 vs the Innuos Zen NG. Another competitor, hard to find on the used market, with an SQ palette sitting between the two described hear is the Grimm MU 1. Analogue like, detail, clarity and dynamics. It will cost more if you can find one. You need to audition and determine which one of the three suit you. I am an Aurender fan but could move to Grimm and be happy for the long term. |
@jsalerno277 Interesting. There is an MU 1 just a few miles from me. I will need to investigate. Thanks! |
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