Aurender A20 or Lumin X1

Your question is kind of like asking do you prefer a BMW or a Porsche? That's something that sound quality should decide, but IMO you can't go wrong with either unit.

However if it were my money, I'd go separates as others have suggested. An Aurender N200 and a Denafrips Terminator Plus 12th DAC can be had for similar cost as the A20 and X1....and that would be world class. I'd also throw the Weiss and T+A DAC 200 as options if one were so inclined.

However if it were my money, I'd go separates as others have suggested. An Aurender N200 and a Denafrips Terminator Plus 12th DAC can be had for similar cost as the A20 and X1....and that would be world class. I'd also throw the Weiss and T+A DAC 200 as options if one were so inclined.

This is an excellent recommendation IMHO, unless you’re a Roon user I guess. 

Sold my Aurender and bought myself a Lumin, I was tired of the interface problems with music streamers, no longer wanted the hassle, just wanted the best most comfortable listening experience... bought a lifetime subscription to Roon. I now listen to far more music with far more interest than I ever have.

Good luck with your decision.

@vthokie83 I had the luxury and pleasure of driving both an M8 and a Porsche Carrera GT some years back. The seat of my pants told me I should opt for the GT. Sadly I am the proud owner of neither. My back and neurologist had different plans for me.

Like those cars another of my senses (hearing) will tell me which of these two boxes to buy. However, I was asking about them from a technical perspective because perhaps someone out there has some insight into the hardware/firmware that might give one a leg up over the other before bring them into my home for a test drive.

Based on comments here, from friends, and others I am leaning toward the A20.

I appreciate the input from all here, thanks.

re-lar-kvothe,

Absolutely you are correct, you were specifically asking about those two units....and I truly believe both the A20 and X1 are truly amazing products (though I've only heard the X1 and A20 not in my system). And as so often happens, we sometimes throw out ideas that were not requested; sorry if that was the case. I have heard the N200 and the Teminator pairing in a system I know well, and oh my God.....nuff said as Stan Lee would say. Best of luck to you in your choice, let us know how it works out