BTW my BS node 2I is for sale. $450.
my impression with the Auralic Altair G1
Last yr. I decided to try streaming. Read a lot and finally decided to buy a Bluesound Node 2I. Cost wise, is a great starter unit. I was surprised by its quality. However streaming Qobuz, there was not much difference from my Marantz cd player. It's fills you at first, but then it's shallow for my taste. There is a limit on how open the SQ will get. I wanted something closer to vinyl. I looked into many external DACs like the Denafrits, Border Patrol and Gustard. I called my trusted Stereo store Audio Conection, I talked to John Ruttan and was referred to buying the Auralic. Altair G1. He sells all of my stereo components and that was a significant factor in my decision. The Altair was beyond my budget limit (how many times we have been there b/c of the itch!). I have to say that it is a marvelous unit. Just one song revealed a superb SQ, better soundstage, instrument separation. Heard stuff I have not heard before even on vinyl. I strongly recommend the Auralic line of streamers. I will continue to listen to my Linn LP12 bc I love vinyl, but steraming is becoming my primary way to enjoy music. I'm very happy with it and strongly recommend. The only issue is that you need an Apple tablet / phone to enjoy the control app, although I heard they are working on Android. Also, a good router is preferred. The rest of my system consist of Belles Virtuoso amp, Audio Illusion pre and Vandys 2CE Sig.
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It is hard in pandemic and post pandemic to compare. I don't live close to a major city with hi end stereo. But just recently in San Francisco went into one and they had a no touch policy and a $200 appointment fee in which they will show the units you are contemplating, and the fee applies to your purchase. In other words, if you are not serious, don't waste our time. That is crazy. |
@lobinero Do you think the main improvement was the streaming ability of the Auralic or the quality of the DAC built in? Because once I bypass my Bluesound's DAC and go out to my Orchid, it sounds really good. |
hilde45 good question. I believe is the DAC. Auralic claims that their Tesla chip is really good. A/B comparison with the Bluesound was incredible. The Auralic blew it away. Opening the soundstage, livelier music and deepness was noticeable. I would not disagree that by passing the BS DAC can led to a good SQ, I didn't have that option. I relied on a trusted person, albeit a seller, but someone that has helped me and recommended good units. I honestly can opine on the streaming capabilities of both units since in my honest lack of tech knowledge, I see streamers like antennas picking up info and the DAC been the most imp component. I'm probably wrong and there is more to it. So far I'm very happy with it. My ears tell me I made a good upgrade. |