Mola Mola Tambaqui Roon vs Separate Streamers

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!

Yes, the Grimm updates are super simple and because they run FPGA, the updates are actually very meaningful. The most recent update took the Grimm to an even more remarkable level. So when you buy it, you’re buying into a company that’s committed to continually improving the product — they’re working on their own software (a Roon alternative) and a DAC as well, which would make it a true one box digital front end.

Yes, it’s both a Roon core and endpoint. Just add DAC.

You need to use as AES cable into the DAC. DH labs makes good inexpensive ones, black cat makes great but more expensive ones.

I believe there are four US dealers last i checked, any should be helpful if there’s nobody in Canada. There’s Doug White in Philly who is an industry legend and super nice guy, there’s Kyomi in Chicago run by a concert pianist and music professor, and there’s Analog Audio which is run by another special dealer. I don’t know anything about the SF dealer. In other words, it says something when some of the best (best in the sense Of experience/knowledge and also customer service) dealers around are carrying this product.