Thoughts on the Auralic Altair?


Digital Audio Review and 6 Moons both recently did previews of the forthcoming Altair, which is intended to be a 1-box streamer + dac solution. The posted msrp of $1895 is about 63% lower than the cost of a Vega + Aries setup. Both previews said the Altair will essentially be a scaled-down Vega with the Femto-Clock version of the Aries.

In terms of marketing, it appears textbook, provided it can deliver around 80% of the sound quality of the separates. (I’m essentially taking the 40% cost of the Altair relative to the separates and doubling it).

I’ve heard the Vega is particularly sensitive to static discharge. If that’s been addressed in the Altair I would certainly consider picking one up.

What do others think?
courant

Showing 1 response by almaaudio

We just got our demo Altair for the store, and it's still breaking in. So, far I like it. Build quality is very good, Vega level. 
The 4 filter options are great, and change the sound significantly, which can help in some systems...
Just the other day they did a firmware update, and Roon is working flawlessly now.

cheers,
alex