2. digital
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Time To Upgrade My Digital Front End

Been streaming via a LAN connection (through SFP’s) using my Gustard R26 DAC as a renderer and have been pretty happy with the sound quality, but I think I would like to step things up a little.

Many here mention the likes of Aurender, Auralic, Innous, and a few smaller, boutique companies as well. Most of these are a bit over my budget though.

I have been reading about the TEAC UD 701 DAC/Server/PA here on AG and some other sites and it’s getting decent write ups. I’m finding though that most of those threads on AG don’t have some of the more seasoned member’s opinions on the TEAC. Is it possibly not up to par?

The UD 701 is around $4K, under my budget of $5K. I’m not opposed to purchasing used (I see one on presently on AG) but would really like to have the security the warranty provides.

And I know, separates are preferred which the TEAC is not...

 

128x128navyachts

Showing 3 responses by vthokie83

vthokie83
672 posts
 

IMO Auralic is a step below some of the other usual suspects (Innuous, Lumin, and Aurender). I personally would upgrade my streamer first, and see how you like it with the Gustard. You’ll have a world class streamer, and can always upgrade the DAC if you find the combo lacking…..as funds permit. See if you can demo a couple of units if a dealer near you will permit.

I borrowed an Aurender from a friend, and holy crap….it was magical paired with a Denafrips Pontus II DAC. I’ve heard Lumin and Innuous in friend’s systems and they sounded amazing, but never in my own system. Also the Aurender app to be excellent, on par with Bluesound’s app

vthokie83
672 posts
 

Navyyachts and Curiousjim,

I initially tried a borrowed N10 (last years version of the N20), and later tried an N200. I think the N10 can be found for about $3,500/$4,00 used, and a used N200 is about $5,000 if you can find one.....$6,300 new. I did prefer the N200 over the N10 (which surprised me), but it was very slight; damn I'd love to own either one.

I'm comparing to my current rig which is a Node 130 with LHY linear power supply, connected to a Denafrips Iris DDC, and outputting I2S  to a Denafrips Pontus II DAC. The Aurenders were a wonderful pairing with the Pontus. I did not try the Aurenders using the Iris DDC, as I did not have it when I borrowed those units.

vthokie83
672 posts
 

Congratulations Navyachts, I think that you will be very happy....and I'm a bit jealous. Let us know how it all sounds once you've got it installed

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