Why I Sold My Aurender N200

@navyachts 

Thank you taking the time for sharing your experience—it’s a thoughtful and grounded perspective that adds a lot to the ongoing discussion about streaming quality. Your process of directly comparing the Aurender N200 to the Bricasti M1 SE II’s network card, especially with your wife’s input, highlights an important truth: the best solution is the one that works for your ears and system.

N200 is a great sounding streamer and usually a better value in a system without a robust purpose built DAC with built-in network capabilities. Your experience coincides with mine (sold my N30SA) and highlights that streaming quality depends on context. For some, a dedicated streamer makes a significant difference and for others, it’s redundant when paired with an exemplary Network attached DAC like the Bricasti or Grimm MU1/MU2 and Merging Technology + player. 

Sharing this experience might encourage others to evaluate their setups with a similar mindset. Enjoy your Bricasti, it sounds like you’ve landed on a solution that delivers exactly what you need!

“Some say the more money you throw at it, the better it will sound (especially when it comes to Aurender)”

@navyachts

That’s has not been my experience regardless of brand and Aurender is no exception. I have come to an understanding that the relationship between cost and sound quality isn’t always linear. There are numerous factors one must take into account such as system synergy, choice of downstream or upstream components, room acoustics, tweaks and personal listening preferences….they all play significant roles in the overall perceived improvement.

While higher-priced models often incorporate advanced tech and superior parts that can enhance performance, the actual degree of auditory benefits may vary given each listeners audio system and listening skills. 

@navyachts 

Did you check with Bricasti if your network card has a built-in galvanic isolation? 

@navyachts 

In that case, I doubt the inexpensive isolation devices being recommended likely yield any significant benefit to sound quality. Atleast that’s been my experience!