Try different filter settings. I have an A20 and prefer the “Super Slow Roll-off 1” digital filter. Also prefer “Critical listening mode”.
Aurender vs CD
Upgrading my old system: Nakamichi CD player OMS-7, Pre-amp CA-5, Amp PA-7, recently purchased Sonus Faber Sonneto VIII speakers; simple Monster RCA interconnects and AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables.
Purchased Aurender A15 to replace the CD player, and the Aurender sounds more "digital" - more noise on the top, less transparent, more fatigue after listening. It's the same while streaming high-res Qobuz, MQA Tidal, or playing from the SSD.
This is my first streamer. Is it the same for all the streamers/DACs in this price range? I also considered but did not audition Lumin, Auralic and HiFi Rose.