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Streaming/DAC Upgrade

Currently have a Bluesound Node running through a Cord Qutest in my main system which includes Arcam C31 Pre-Amp and two Arcam P1 Mono Blocks and Energy Varitas V2.4 Floorstanding Speakers.  Considering moving to Auralic Altair G2.1.  The Altair 2.1 has was  discontinued last year but they are offering NOS at a significant discount, currently $2439.  Also under consideration is the new Aries S1 or Vega S1.  I would move the Bluesound Note and Chord Qutest to my secondary system.

Potential setups would be…

1. Altair 2.1

2. Aries S1 with Qutest (possibly adding PSU to Aries S1)

3. Vega S1 (possibly adding PSU to Vega S1)

Again I would move Bluesound node and , or Chord Qutest to my secondary system.

Advise is greatly appreciated, keep in mind my budget is about $3000.

litespeedaudio
jond's avatar
jond
5,845 posts
 

I'm a big Auralic fan here running an Aries G1 currently I've always been a fan of keeping the streamer and Dac separate so I vote S1. Early reviews from users are glowing on the Auralic forums.

jester115
4 posts
 

I moved from a Bluesound Node 2i with a linear power supply upgrade to an Auralic Aries G1.1 and it was a dramatic improvement in sound for me. I didn’t think it would be so noticeable but it was and that is using the same external DAC (Schiit Yggdrasil). I can’t comment on the Altair, but why not just get a streamer and then use your current DAC first to see if there is a positive change?

wrm57
1,048 posts
 

I bought that Auralic G2.1 deal and I’m quite happy. It’s my third Auralic streamer/dac; the other two (Aries Mini + S-Booster LPS and an original Altair) are still playing in secondary systems. I love being able to control all three from my iPhone via the Lightning app. I only stream Tidal, not files. The G2.1 is big upgrade over the others, easily at home in a heavily vinyl-oriented main system.

dwest1023
209 posts
 

My streamer journey began with my Apple Air computer and a schitt Yggy. Loved it for awhile then the upgrade iitis got to me. Tried and purchased all 3 Eversolo models up to the A8. None sounded better than my the Apple air.   Changed DACs from denfrips Pontus and terminator. I preferred the Pontus to the terminator. Sold the terminator and bought a Hifi rose 130 transport. Things got a little better but still not quite as good as my Mac air. Purchased a Holo May Kte. Now I’m smiling. Purchased a Aurender N200 and now I have seemed to improved from the Mac air. Software was easy to use unlike the software that came with the HI ROSE. FINALLY, moved on the Aurender N20. I’m done here. Even if I can get better, the sound I have now is Good enough. 

oldrooney's avatar
oldrooney
208 posts
 

@litespeedaudio 
@wrm57 

OP: Like wrm57, I jumped on the Altair 2.1 deal (although I wish I had the budget for the Aries 2.2). I’m pleased that I can use a wireless connection, and the analog input has come in very handy. The DAC is very good (no flaws, neutral), and the analog output is excellent. The bass output is strong, so much so that I disabled my McIntosh active enviromental EQ, with the Altair in line, I could hear the noise the EQ was making, it wasn’t discernible through the Freya+ which preceded it, if that tells you anything. Very enjoyable, non-fatiguing listening to me. Recommended. 

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