2. digital
  3. 189163-189386

NAD C658 upgrade -> Auralic Altair G1.1,... ?

Hi everyone,

My current set exists of the NAD C658 streamer/preamp/dac + the NAD C298 power amplifier with a pair of bookshelf speakers.  I'm mostly streaming music via Qobuz, but also listening to internet radio, playing CD's with a transport connected via coax & streaming files from a NAS.

I'm looking for an upgrade of the C658 and would prefer to keep streamer/dac/preamp in a single box.  However, I'm open to suggestions.

The price range is around 3000€.

I had the opportunity to try both the Eversolo Dmp-a8 & Auralic Altair G1 from my hifi dealer.

I don't consider the Eversolo as a real a upgrade in my set but just sounding different.

I was quite impressed by the Altair G1 (couldn't get the 1.1, but I assume the character is similar).

Some questions from my side:

- When changing tracks via Qobuz (only source I tested), I sometimes heard a small tap (hope this is understandable English) in the sound.  Any idea how this can be solved (will ask my dealer next Friday also) ?

- What are possible alternatives for the G1.1 in this price range ?

- I'm not familiar with the Auralic brand, so interested to know how long they will upgrade the software, since the G1.1 is almost 2 years on the market.  Maybe they don't have a lifecycle policy, but probably some people can tell from experience how long devices are upgraded.

- Does someone know if a G1.2 is planned/annouced ?

Please let me know if any more information is needed to be able to respond to my post.

Thanks a lot in advance for your response & advice,

Wim

jazzwood

Showing 1 response by mgrif104

mgrif104
328 posts
 

I have Auralic gear though the Aries G2 and Sirius G2.1 processor. I had the Vega G2.1 DAC as well until I upgraded from there - but it was quite good and fully competitive with other $7k+ DACs. 

I mention this because i don’t have direct experience with the Altair line though I understand it to also be quite good and competitive with similarly priced units.

It’s possible the “click” or “tap” you’re hearing is the unit switching to adjust to different file formats or bit rates available on many Qobuz streams. 

You asked about their support of their software. I find they upgrade continuously - and do so automatically and seem to fully support older units in this regard. 

I think the units are well made and supported. 

You might find helpful information in the Auralic community forums: community.auralic.com. The president of the company also frequently responds to support requests and questions. It’s a good company with enthusiastic users.

Best,

Mgrif

More to discover