Try different filter settings. I have an A20 and prefer the “Super Slow Roll-off 1” digital filter. Also prefer “Critical listening mode”.
Aurender vs CD
Upgrading my old system: Nakamichi CD player OMS-7, Pre-amp CA-5, Amp PA-7, recently purchased Sonus Faber Sonneto VIII speakers; simple Monster RCA interconnects and AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables.
Purchased Aurender A15 to replace the CD player, and the Aurender sounds more "digital" - more noise on the top, less transparent, more fatigue after listening. It's the same while streaming high-res Qobuz, MQA Tidal, or playing from the SSD.
This is my first streamer. Is it the same for all the streamers/DACs in this price range? I also considered but did not audition Lumin, Auralic and HiFi Rose.
- ...
- 11 posts total
Thanks All for the replies! @designsfx - perfect suggestion, thank you! I tried both connection options in the beginning, when I just received the Aurender and before it broke in. I couldn't hear the difference back then and left Aurender on the Aux of the pre-amp. I tried now connecting it directly to the amp, and that worked - the SQ is identical to the CD, if not a bit more transparent! |
Thanks @rockrider! CLM does improve the SQ - a bit more clear top and focused bass, at least to me |
@evernv I agree on playing with the DAC filters as well. The A15 benefits from some break in time, so it will sound more full and open as the DAC breaks in. Also, most Aurender you units including the A15 will benefit from a quality cabling. You can reach a much higher level of performance if you find a power cable with very good shielding and 10-12AWG copper or silver plated copper conductors. Quality Ethernet cables can also reduce fatigue. |
- 11 posts total