Great review as usual! What a fantastic time to be an audiophile. So many excellent options. I’ve just upgraded from the Wiim Pro to the Volumio Rivo with and LPS. It feeds by Gustard R26 via USB. Could not be happier.
I"d like to see a comparison of the Aires S1, G1, and G2 transports... Used G2 or G2.1 are going for around $2,500-$3,000 lately. (some even have upgraded power supplies). Used G1 are selling for only about $1,200 now.
Hey Tarun, thanks for another very well made review. I've just ordered the Vega S1 to go along with my Naim Nait 50 integrated. I've been using the Innuos ZenMini3 as source with its internal dac. But wanted something a bit better for the Nait 50. I'm going off your recommendation, but think I will be very pleased with the new purchase.
@@morespinach9832 Yes very happy with the Vega S1. I have it set up in DirectDAC mode (so the streamer side is turned off) and it sounds very good - Huge soundstage, and instrument separation, without being fatiguing. I think most agree that the power supply takes it to a higher level still, but I've not had the chance to try it. Maybe next years purchase. 😁
@@domtomas1178 thanks. I want almost the opposite - streamer only (have an excellent DAC in RME pro with an MCRU linear power supply). What streamer do you use?
HoloAudio - Red DDC & Network Streamer and their new CYAN - 2 DAC. Some good reviews for the DAC, but I can't find many if any reviews on the streamer. Also the new Laiv Harmony DAC in comparison to the HoloAudio CYAN-2. Cheers
Great review, thank you. I was looking at S1 from day 1 and it looks fantastic. Even if I wouldn't probably use the DAC inside (I have Pontus II which I still believe is better), I would go for it immediately.. IF.. it would support Apple Music hi-res. Unfortunately, that's not the case, which is a real shame for this device. I know there aren't that many Apple Music hi-res users as there are for Roon, but still if we compare it with Eversolo A8, that unit supports it. I know it is because of Android system used in Eversolo, it's just a bit let down, considering also the fact Auralic specialized with their app on Apple devices. I still hope there will come soon more excellent streamers like Auralic S1 that support natively Apple Music hi-res streaming. I know that for example Aqua LinQ is about to release dedicated module for Apple Music hi-res sometime this year, but that device is in a different league price-wise.
Another great review. It's the comparisons that are super valuable and much appreciated. You always pick great pieces like the Billie heaven 11, but since you asked I'll give you my wishlist. They are all similar price brackets to what you review. Streamers: Orchard audi pecan pi Magna mono ultra Dacs: Holo cyan 2 Lta aero Preamps: Rogue audio rp-1 Lta velo Amps: Orchard audio starkrimson ultra mono blocks Van Alstine dva m225 mono blocks
Thank you for the insights! Saved me from making a bad purchase 😅 I am looking for a competent streamer in the 2k range and while the audio side of things is my clear priority, I would still want it to be able to work with audio from a video source. I assume that what is said about the Vega is the same for the Aries S1 in regards the DDR and latency? And no way around it?
@@abritishaudiophile7314 it would be great if you could get your hands on an Holo Audio Cyan 2 for review. I'd be interested to see where it lies amongst the other ladder dacs.
Try the ps audio airlens streamer with a holo audio dac especially the newest one the cyan 2 I had one on demo it blew my Eversolo master edition away great reviews by the way
@@richardclegg4866 good to hear. I've had a Cyan 2 on order for a few weeks now. The Airlens certainly ticks all my box's, were it not for one review...... Still, maybe. I need more reviews on it.
Once again, Tarun digs deep and puts the entire review in context of related equipment which is an outstanding context. A very enjoyable evaluation and one that is worth more than one viewing.
On your comment re the buttons and lack of touch screen, compared to others like the Eversolo, I have to say that my experience with my recently acquired Aries G2.2 is that the physical interfaces on the unit itself are not important. Just sit back with your phone or tablet as the product was envisaged to be operated. Thanks for the upload, always informative and enjoyable to watch.
Hey Mate, Saw your recommendation for this and am looking into it. Was wondering if you are going to be at the Hi End Show in Munich this coming weekend on the 11/12th May 2024. Would be great to meet for a coffee if you are there. Not sure how I can contact you other than here at RUclips. regards, Bal.
Just joined as Patreon subscriber. But will post this here. Interested in the Sonnet Pasithea. Particularly compared to Venus, LTA Aero (new) and PS Audio Gold DAC. Please keep up the good work!
Thanks for this great review. My only question would be how does the sound of this DAC compare to the Audio Note 0.1x you reviewed recently? I’m down to deciding between these!
@@abritishaudiophile7314 any way for you to characterize those different sonic presentations? In any event… thanks for your great work. I enjoy your videos. I’ll get one of these for sure.
Thanks Tarun. Very interesting. I'd love to hear your take on the PS Audio Airlens. Think it sits at the other end of the market being as 'simple' a streaming product as you can get for those of us who don't need all the bells and whistles and have an external DAC.
Hello Tarun. Quick clarification. You say the Vega S1 is a level above the Gustard R26 in resolution. Would all other characteristics such as soundstage depth and width be at least on par with the Gustard? I was all set on the Altair G1.1 for its DAC performance but now the Vega S1 seems better for me. I don't need WiFi. Though the lack of internal storage is a shame. Thank you.
Another relaxing review over a weekend morning coffee. Thanks Tarun! Anything from Black Ice Audio in Usa would be great to review. I have their Glass FX Tube dac and it is outstanding for the price. It beat many other famous dacs in a blind shootout. The company is run by two very friendly enthusiastic young guys. Cheers
Another exceptional video, Tarun. I have a mid tier system with a G1 Aries I got used and pair it with a Pontus II. I'll probably do some upgrading at some point on the used market relying on your excellent reviews.
This is a great review Tarun, really appreciated! But now I’m wondering how this compares to Minidsp SHD. Apart from the Dirac Live, do you think this may be an upgrade? Thanks in advance
Thank you kindly for this review. I was beginning to be very interested in the S1 but your comments have just saved me from making a costly mistake. This is the only review that I've come across for this unit that mentions the lip sync issue if you are using the S1 for AV duties via a toslink cable from the TV. That's a deal breaker for me
Thank you for the video Tarun. I would like to see a comparison between the Ifi Neo Stream (only the digital outputs), the Volumio Rivo and the Magna Mano Ultra MK3. Although none of them have the Eversolo's screen, nor their features, I suspect that they are streamers that have a more natural/analog sound.
I would love to see you review the LAiV Audio Harmony R2R dac. LAiV is a relatively new company based in Singapore. They sell direct, but also have distributors/dealers. They list two in the UK: Elise Audio in London; and Hifonix near Birmingham. The Harmony dac is priced at 2700 GBP/$2700 and supposedly is great value for the money having received many enthusiastic reviews from customers and reviewers.
Exploring a streamer\dac. Potentially the Vega S1, Eversolo DM-A6 with a Denafrps Ares 12th dac (or 2nd hand Pontus 2), Eversolo DM-A8 or Audiolab 9000. Really need to demo this Vega S1...currently the A8 is winning in my demos but the build and interior of the R2R Denafrips dacs is just too tempting as i love engineering like that!!! Great review as always, i don;t think there is bad choice in my shortlist, just need to decide if i go single box or two box solution!
Hi, Tarun. A question and a comment. First, do you think that a budget streamer (like a BS Node or a Zen Stream with an LPS) paired with a DDC (like the Denafrips Iris or Hermes) is more or less equivalent in performance to a higher end streamer? Second, there are a few YT tutorials on how to create convolution filters for Roon or other devices. The process uses both REW for EQ and rePhase for correcting phase. (Both REW and rePhase are free downloads.) Doing sweeps with and without filter implementation shows that EQ flattens the frequency response as desired and that IR and phase are improved. My ears hear an improvement as well. I agree that speaker set-up is still necessary before any filter creation, but convolution filters definitely can be the icing on the cake. 👍
It would be worth finding out how good a basic streamer and DDC will perform. Although, I expect preventing jitter and noise is always better than try to cure it down the line. There are a few systems that attempt to correct for phase as well as amplitude. I still haven’t heard one demoed that I liked but I will keep an open mind until I get one home 😊
This unit has really caught my eye, but so has the newly announced Lumin P1 Mini. I know the price between the two is significant, but I’ll love to see a comparison of those two units. Equal functionality, but quite different design approaches.
Thanks for the excellent review. I’m thinking of going Naim, however I’m really enjoying my topping d90se DAC, I actually find my Naim amp brings a good balance and musicality. So I know non Naim can match with Naim pretty well, but I would like to know how Naim streamer compares to brands like Auralic and other high end brands. Please review Naim streamer
Hello Tarun, another great review as usual. I am not in the market for such devices since I have the Eversolo A8. I'm very happy with it and if I didn't have it and had to choose now, I'd still choose the A8, especially because of the analog preamp I use to listen to vinyl records. The choice of Auralic not to offer an application for Android also seems strange to me (probably they lost enough potential customers who did not want to pay extra for an iPad), just as it seems strange to me to use an HDMI connector for the external source. But I am convinced that it is a very good device and it will probably be very successful. It would be interesting for a lot of people if you did reviews of those little Chinese monsters like Fosi, Aiyima, Arylic and others that we all know wipe the floor with amplifiers many times more expensive offered by well-known manufacturers. Or at least that's what it appears from the dozens of reviews where it says in big and colorful letters Giant Killer or Giant Slayer or Stop wasting your money. I'm not really that convinced and considering that I have complete trust in you, I would very much like to know your opinion. Thank you
If I would invest in a new streamer I would probably get a Volumio Rivo with Allo Shanti power supply or Sbooster. Maybe you could do a group review of streaming transports around that price point. Denafrips Arce comes to mind. There must be more like the HoloAudio Red.
I would love to see your analysis of several higher priced items that I own: innuos ZenMk 3, Lampizator Amber 4, and AGD Forte 1. While these are not inexpensive, they seem to be good value for the money given the way the have multiple functions and cn be bought used.
Hi and thanks. These products are beautifully manufactured! Personally, I love the sound of the relay clicks....Could you post a video about audiophile CDs again? That would be great !
Great review as ever. I really think they have missed a trick not including Android for the app. Certainly makes me think twice. I know i pads can be found for a low price, but its not about that, especially when considering spending many thousands on these products, its that i am not sure i have the energy to get into the apple ecosystem now.
I would like to see you review the Linn Selekt DSM. And yes I know Linn is notorious for not giving review units away so you have to find a friendly dealer.
Hi Tarun, Great review and you hit the needle on the head. DAC offerings within the same company are often very confusing. Gone are the days where dearer models simply had more buttons and more power. I am thinking of the receiver wars here. I would love to see you review some PS Audio products. In fact I told Paul already in his comment section to send you some stuff and got many positive replies on that. Lets hope he listens to me :)
Tarun, outstanding and comprehensive as usual! Seems a real checkmate from Aurelic with this set. Just wish it also had a digital out to try with other dacs - as per the Eversolo. Guessing this was to not compromise things? 🙏🏼👍🏼
Thank you kindly. This is a more purist unit than the DMP-A8 they included the features internally that improve sound quality but limited the external feature to meet a price 😊
This was a great review. Thank you. You always do a great job with all of your video reviews and provide much insight that appears to be backed up by a lot of research and listening. Thanks again and keep up the great work.
Always a pleasure to sit down and listen to your reviews which many viewers have commented are the best in the business. the comparisons are all important when trying to assess it's performance on a objective level. I know you don't have the Merason Frerot Dac/power combo to hand to make an accurate comparison but seeing as they are around the same cost which did you prefer?
Wow Tarun, that's fast! Just this week I asked you for this review and there it is! Thank you. And I can say, your opinion is a big push for me in purchasing this streamer/dac. Time to leave the old Bluesound Node trail 😊 Best regards, Jos (NL)
putting those buttons on top strikes me as a smart design choice, I think most of these units will be placed on waist-high furniture -- nice discussion, cheers
Hi Tarun, Would you say that the combination of Auralic Vega S1 and PSU is as good as your streamer and Denafrips Venus 2 DAC. I am wanting to buy the Vega S1 and PSU blindly?
I was considering purchasing the Auralic Vega S1, but after reading your review and noting the potential synchronization issues, I have hesitated. Could you please let me know the brand and model of the TV you used during your testing? Understanding this would be very helpful for me as I aim to avoid similar issues in my own setup.
i love your comment @11:40 about parametric EQ introduces issues…I’ve noticed that so I prefer real tone controls (bass/treble) on my Parasound 2100 preamp. source=Apple Music lossless
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Hi, It would be cool if you could compare the new Laiv Harmony to the Denafrips and Holo; then recommend which one sounds best for female vocalists/jazz. I have the Denafrips Pontus II 12th-1 + Denafrips Iris 12th Apple Music lossless
Love your reviews Tarun. You keep it positive, but it’s always clear what you think about the equipment tested. I think this could be the perfect streamer/ dac for my system. I now have a Ultrarendu > Denafrips Iris DDC > Denafrips Pontus II. Do you think it will perform similar or will I be disappointed?
Went with the Eversolo 8 mainly for the PEQ in the DSP. I learn later the Auralic also has that. I would have preferred the better internals of the Auralic as the Eversolo outputs some earth noise. Too late now but in future I will consider the Auralic.
Hi Tarun. Hans Beekhuyzen just posted a review of the Aries S1 and mentioned DIRAC integration was coming in the future. Have you heard anything about DIRAC for the Vega S1?
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Actually, Auralic could not squeeze (technical issues) Dirac in that release as per the Auralic team member. They gave an estimate of 2 more months.
People, keep insists on hardware streamer 7:05 improvements to archive better quality streaming; and on my opinion it’s a great waste of money and time. Better understanding the decoder, will prove very clear my point. Streaming is 75% decoding software plus good PSU for the hardware. I feel really bad about the situation and the fever about the product. Let’s be clear…
Cheers Tarun great review as usual. For the next review question what about a Lyngdorf device? I have the 1120 as the room correction makes near field listening with subs in a small office possible
I have the 1120, and also the custard r26 and u18 PSU. I don't suppose anyone could give me an estimation of quality between them? (I've not set these up, so no point of reference -- old stuff I was using was arcam avr390, and a Cambridge audio 851N) Speakers currently PMC fb1s (wanting to upgrade those too, but not sure what to!)
Great review Tarun. Just need to offload some gear before I can get one. What about reviewing the WiiM Ultra? Lower end but ‘bang for buck’ should be huge. Thanks.
Interesting and informative as always Tarun. And "Who Drove the Red Sports Car". Some of that really old Van Morrison stuff was disturbing. The way I listen to music is spinning silver discs, so I'd like to see reviews of CD transports. I'm sure that puts me in a tiny minority, but I'm kind of used to swimming against the tide.
Could you explain, please. manufacturer sells Aries streamer for 2k and has vega s1 for same 2k, that not only streamer but dac and preamp. As I understand they have same streamer platform and processor inside . Same power board, except several elements like caps and voltages. How could it be? Tell us, please , what difference in streamer part of 2 models?
😂I buy cds from Japan 🇯🇵 I have tidal and use the dac in my cd player to stream. I'm old I still don't think streaming sounds better than a good cd player.
hi just would like to ask wich combo has more scale and authority (Auralic Vega S1 & PSU or Venus & aries)? and dacs would be intresting to see in review : HOLO AUDIO cayan 2, smsl su 10 thanks
To use with a videoprojector including a video streamer (so no need of a blu-ray), would the optical cable be as good as the earc connexion with an eversolo dmp8 ? As I’d love to choose the auralic vega s1 as a source for my primaluna evo300 and my yamaha soavo 1 speakers, instead of the eversolo. Could you give me some advice ? Thanks,
You can’t use the Vega S1 with video sources due to latency caused but the way that it buffers information. This affects the optical input too. If it has HDMI eARC like the Altair G2.2, that would resolve the issue. HDMI eARC uses as independent digital interface on the that device 😊
I'm disappointed because it appears the unit won't really have Dirac, it will just be more of a Dirac "facilitator". It doesn't have any sub outs. I love Dirac for the low end corrections. I guess it's still the Nad M66 for me. Thanks for the review as always.
Great review. But I have one question about upsampling. Can S1 upsample to DSD 256 or higher from any digital source or can only upsample PCM up and how high it can upsample those digital signals. Thanks for explanation.
When you talk about the touch screen… who really walk to the sound system to play with it if you have a app or a remote? Just don’t get it! Would like a bigger screen to see it from my sit …
Previous Auralic Vega DACs have not had any server function (unlike the Altairs), is that still the case with the Vega S1? Because the HDD port would indicate that there is a server built in.
Great review as usual!
What a fantastic time to be an audiophile. So many excellent options.
I’ve just upgraded from the Wiim Pro to the Volumio Rivo with and LPS. It feeds by Gustard R26 via USB. Could not be happier.
Thank you 👍
Absolutely perfect timing! I have the Altair G1.1 on my shopping list. Looking forward to watching this video tonight. Instant like. ❤
Much appreciated 👍
I also would be very interested if you get the opportunity to review the LAiV Harmony DAC.
Thx 😊
LAiV Harmony DAC looks like its everyone's new favourite dac
Another great review. I would like to see you review the $2,000 Auralic Aries S1 Transport sometime. Thanks Tarun!
Thank you Bryan 👍
I"d like to see a comparison of the Aires S1, G1, and G2 transports...
Used G2 or G2.1 are going for around $2,500-$3,000 lately. (some even have upgraded power supplies). Used G1 are selling for only about $1,200 now.
As always precise and unbiased. looking at this unit.
@@jasonme3557 thank you 👍
Hi Tarum. Answering your question,I would like to see NAD M66. Thanks
Thx 😊
Hey Tarun, thanks for another very well made review. I've just ordered the Vega S1 to go along with my Naim Nait 50 integrated. I've been using the Innuos ZenMini3 as source with its internal dac. But wanted something a bit better for the Nait 50. I'm going off your recommendation, but think I will be very pleased with the new purchase.
Great 👍 please let me know how you get on 😊
And were you?
@@morespinach9832 Yes very happy with the Vega S1. I have it set up in DirectDAC mode (so the streamer side is turned off) and it sounds very good - Huge soundstage, and instrument separation, without being fatiguing. I think most agree that the power supply takes it to a higher level still, but I've not had the chance to try it. Maybe next years purchase. 😁
@@domtomas1178 thanks. I want almost the opposite - streamer only (have an excellent DAC in RME pro with an MCRU linear power supply). What streamer do you use?
@@morespinach9832 I use the Innuos Zen mini3 streamer. The Innuos app has a great interface. Almost as nice as Roon I would say.
I’m very interested in the S1 transport just to try Dirac Live in my 2ch system without having another box/conversion with something like a minidsp
Would like to see more streaming transports
Thx 😊
I would be happy if you could review the LAiV Harmony DAC if possible
Thx 👍
HoloAudio - Red DDC & Network Streamer and their new CYAN - 2 DAC. Some good reviews for the DAC, but I can't find many if any reviews on the streamer. Also the new Laiv Harmony DAC in comparison to the HoloAudio CYAN-2. Cheers
Thank you 😊
@@rhphotocdn I’d love to see more reviews on the Cyan 2 and Red also
Hi. Would like to see your review of the PS Audio Airlens streamer. Thanks!
Thanks for the review . It would be great if you could compare the next few tiers up - entry level dCS , Mola mola etc
I hope to in time 😊
Great review, thank you. I was looking at S1 from day 1 and it looks fantastic. Even if I wouldn't probably use the DAC inside (I have Pontus II which I still believe is better), I would go for it immediately.. IF.. it would support Apple Music hi-res. Unfortunately, that's not the case, which is a real shame for this device. I know there aren't that many Apple Music hi-res users as there are for Roon, but still if we compare it with Eversolo A8, that unit supports it. I know it is because of Android system used in Eversolo, it's just a bit let down, considering also the fact Auralic specialized with their app on Apple devices.
I still hope there will come soon more excellent streamers like Auralic S1 that support natively Apple Music hi-res streaming. I know that for example Aqua LinQ is about to release dedicated module for Apple Music hi-res sometime this year, but that device is in a different league price-wise.
Good points Michal 😊
My favourite Saturday morning watch thank you.
That is great. Thank you 👍
Another great review. It's the comparisons that are super valuable and much appreciated. You always pick great pieces like the Billie heaven 11, but since you asked I'll give you my wishlist. They are all similar price brackets to what you review.
Streamers:
Orchard audi pecan pi
Magna mono ultra
Dacs:
Holo cyan 2
Lta aero
Preamps:
Rogue audio rp-1
Lta velo
Amps:
Orchard audio starkrimson ultra mono blocks
Van Alstine dva m225 mono blocks
Thank you Jason. Much appreciated 😊👍
Thank you for the insights! Saved me from making a bad purchase 😅 I am looking for a competent streamer in the 2k range and while the audio side of things is my clear priority, I would still want it to be able to work with audio from a video source. I assume that what is said about the Vega is the same for the Aries S1 in regards the DDR and latency? And no way around it?
@@FredrikN-u8m yes, same with the Aries S1 😊
It’s a great time to be in this hobby :)
Your take on the new Laiv Harmony DAC would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you 😊
Hi Tarun,
Almost settled on something & there you go throwing a spanner in the works 😂
Sorry about that 😊
New review on a Saturday morning? Perfect. I’ll grab a coffee and indulge. Cheers Tarun ☕️🎶🎵
Thank you my friend. I hope you enjoy it. This one was quite a ride 😊👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 it would be great if you could get your hands on an Holo Audio Cyan 2 for review. I'd be interested to see where it lies amongst the other ladder dacs.
Try the ps audio airlens streamer with a holo audio dac especially the newest one the cyan 2 I had one on demo it blew my Eversolo master edition away great reviews by the way
@@richardclegg4866 good to hear. I've had a Cyan 2 on order for a few weeks now. The Airlens certainly ticks all my box's, were it not for one review...... Still, maybe. I need more reviews on it.
Once again, Tarun digs deep and puts the entire review in context of related equipment which is an outstanding context. A very enjoyable evaluation and one that is worth more than one viewing.
Thank you kindly. Much appreciated 😊👍
Would apreciate reviews on holo cyan 2, ferrum wandla and the laiv harmony dacs. Nice review btw.
Thank you 😊
On your comment re the buttons and lack of touch screen, compared to others like the Eversolo, I have to say that my experience with my recently acquired Aries G2.2 is that the physical interfaces on the unit itself are not important.
Just sit back with your phone or tablet as the product was envisaged to be operated.
Thanks for the upload, always informative and enjoyable to watch.
I'm not comfortable with how confused I am.
Could you review the InnuOS PULSE Mini and ZENmini LPSU ? And compare it to the auralic vega S1 ? Thank you.
Good suggestion. I hope to get to it 😊
Hey Mate, Saw your recommendation for this and am looking into it. Was wondering if you are going to be at the Hi End Show in Munich this coming weekend on the 11/12th May 2024. Would be great to meet for a coffee if you are there. Not sure how I can contact you other than here at RUclips.
regards, Bal.
Hi Bal, unfortunately, I can’t make Munich this year but will take a rain check on that coffee ☕️👍
@@abritishaudiophile7314 ok, no worries. Is there another way to contact you other than here?
I have a b/s node 2i into Aethos , this looks like the upgrade for me?? I’ll have to demo thanks Tarun
@@MartinLloyd-w1u thx 👍
Thanks! You're obviously on top of things! Just wondering if you could review the Aries S1 as well?
Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Just joined as Patreon subscriber.
But will post this here.
Interested in the Sonnet Pasithea.
Particularly compared to Venus, LTA Aero (new) and PS Audio Gold DAC.
Please keep up the good work!
Thanks for this great review. My only question would be how does the sound of this DAC compare to the Audio Note 0.1x you reviewed recently? I’m down to deciding between these!
@@pl6016 both great with different sonic presentations. They will duke it out in my end of year awards 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 any way for you to characterize those different sonic presentations? In any event… thanks for your great work. I enjoy your videos. I’ll get one of these for sure.
I'll await your review of the Laiv Harmony DAC.
Thx for the suggestion 😊
Thank you for your review! Waiting patiently for some Exposure monoblocks reviews. I'd love to hear your opinion on the xm9s, the 3510s and the 5010s.
Thank you 😊
Thanks Tarun. Very interesting. I'd love to hear your take on the PS Audio Airlens. Think it sits at the other end of the market being as 'simple' a streaming product as you can get for those of us who don't need all the bells and whistles and have an external DAC.
Thank you 😊
Hello Tarun. Quick clarification. You say the Vega S1 is a level above the Gustard R26 in resolution. Would all other characteristics such as soundstage depth and width be at least on par with the Gustard? I was all set on the Altair G1.1 for its DAC performance but now the Vega S1 seems better for me. I don't need WiFi. Though the lack of internal storage is a shame. Thank you.
Yes, the soundstage width and depth is similar to the R26. Although this increases with the addition of the optional Purer power supply 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Thank you! Then, the path forward is clear. Cheers!
Another relaxing review over a weekend morning coffee. Thanks Tarun!
Anything from Black Ice Audio in Usa would be great to review. I have their Glass FX Tube dac and it is outstanding for the price. It beat many other famous dacs in a blind shootout. The company is run by two very friendly enthusiastic young guys. Cheers
Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Thanks Tarun. I think I'll muddle through with the G1.1/Pontus II combo. My ear only support so much goodness.
You are a wise man Jim 😉
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Hello, nice review. Do you think that the addition of the dedicated power brought the S1 to the level of Venus with G1.1?
Another exceptional video, Tarun. I have a mid tier system with a G1 Aries I got used and pair it with a Pontus II. I'll probably do some upgrading at some point on the used market relying on your excellent reviews.
Thank you much appreciated 😊👍
Please do the Auralic Aries S1 streamer ,, I am very interested in its Dirac option , only other streamer under 2K do that is the Minidsp SHD
This is a great review Tarun, really appreciated! But now I’m wondering how this compares to Minidsp SHD. Apart from the Dirac Live, do you think this may be an upgrade? Thanks in advance
Thank you kindly for this review. I was beginning to be very interested in the S1 but your comments have just saved me from making a costly mistake. This is the only review that I've come across for this unit that mentions the lip sync issue if you are using the S1 for AV duties via a toslink cable from the TV. That's a deal breaker for me
Hi from Spain and France , if possible i ll would like whats your opinion on the Gustard x30, thanks & regards
This crowded space in the market. Good review as usual. Thx.
Thank you 😊
Thank you for the video Tarun. I would like to see a comparison between the Ifi Neo Stream (only the digital outputs), the Volumio Rivo and the Magna Mano Ultra MK3. Although none of them have the Eversolo's screen, nor their features, I suspect that they are streamers that have a more natural/analog sound.
Thank you 😊
I second the Magna.
Any chance of a review of the holo audio cyan 2?
@@radicalrealmrecordings42 thx. I have requested it 😊
I would love to see you review the LAiV Audio Harmony R2R dac. LAiV is a relatively new company based in Singapore. They sell direct, but also have distributors/dealers. They list two in the UK: Elise Audio in London; and Hifonix near Birmingham. The Harmony dac is priced at 2700 GBP/$2700 and supposedly is great value for the money having received many enthusiastic reviews from customers and reviewers.
Watch this space 😉
Exploring a streamer\dac. Potentially the Vega S1, Eversolo DM-A6 with a Denafrps Ares 12th dac (or 2nd hand Pontus 2), Eversolo DM-A8 or Audiolab 9000. Really need to demo this Vega S1...currently the A8 is winning in my demos but the build and interior of the R2R Denafrips dacs is just too tempting as i love engineering like that!!! Great review as always, i don;t think there is bad choice in my shortlist, just need to decide if i go single box or two box solution!
Agreed. All good choices 👍
Auralic can't play native Apple Music lossless and hires lossless, so it's a NO SALE for me. Whereas the Eversolo DMP-A8 can.
Thx for sharing 😊
Hi, Tarun. A question and a comment. First, do you think that a budget streamer (like a BS Node or a Zen Stream with an LPS) paired with a DDC (like the Denafrips Iris or Hermes) is more or less equivalent in performance to a higher end streamer? Second, there are a few YT tutorials on how to create convolution filters for Roon or other devices. The process uses both REW for EQ and rePhase for correcting phase. (Both REW and rePhase are free downloads.) Doing sweeps with and without filter implementation shows that EQ flattens the frequency response as desired and that IR and phase are improved. My ears hear an improvement as well. I agree that speaker set-up is still necessary before any filter creation, but convolution filters definitely can be the icing on the cake. 👍
It would be worth finding out how good a basic streamer and DDC will perform. Although, I expect preventing jitter and noise is always better than try to cure it down the line. There are a few systems that attempt to correct for phase as well as amplitude. I still haven’t heard one demoed that I liked but I will keep an open mind until I get one home 😊
This unit has really caught my eye, but so has the newly announced Lumin P1 Mini.
I know the price between the two is significant, but I’ll love to see a comparison of those two units. Equal functionality, but quite different design approaches.
Thx for sharing 😊
Thanks for the excellent review. I’m thinking of going Naim, however I’m really enjoying my topping d90se DAC, I actually find my Naim amp brings a good balance and musicality. So I know non Naim can match with Naim pretty well, but I would like to know how Naim streamer compares to brands like Auralic and other high end brands. Please review Naim streamer
Thank you. I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Hello Tarun,
another great review as usual. I am not in the market for such devices since I have the Eversolo A8. I'm very happy with it and if I didn't have it and had to choose now, I'd still choose the A8, especially because of the analog preamp I use to listen to vinyl records. The choice of Auralic not to offer an application for Android also seems strange to me (probably they lost enough potential customers who did not want to pay extra for an iPad), just as it seems strange to me to use an HDMI connector for the external source. But I am convinced that it is a very good device and it will probably be very successful.
It would be interesting for a lot of people if you did reviews of those little Chinese monsters like Fosi, Aiyima, Arylic and others that we all know wipe the floor with amplifiers many times more expensive offered by well-known manufacturers. Or at least that's what it appears from the dozens of reviews where it says in big and colorful letters Giant Killer or Giant Slayer or Stop wasting your money. I'm not really that convinced and considering that I have complete trust in you, I would very much like to know your opinion.
Thank you
Thank you for sharing 👍
If I would invest in a new streamer I would probably get a Volumio Rivo with Allo Shanti power supply or Sbooster. Maybe you could do a group review of streaming transports around that price point. Denafrips Arce comes to mind. There must be more like the HoloAudio Red.
I appreciate the suggestion 😊
I would love to see your analysis of several higher priced items that I own: innuos ZenMk 3, Lampizator Amber 4, and AGD Forte 1. While these are not inexpensive, they seem to be good value for the money given the way the have multiple functions and cn be bought used.
Thank you 😊
Technical and informative as always. Thanks for your service to the community
Thank you kindly 😊👍
Hi and thanks. These products are beautifully manufactured! Personally, I love the sound of the relay clicks....Could you post a video about audiophile CDs again? That would be great !
Thank you 😊
Great review as ever. I really think they have missed a trick not including Android for the app. Certainly makes me think twice. I know i pads can be found for a low price, but its not about that, especially when considering spending many thousands on these products, its that i am not sure i have the energy to get into the apple ecosystem now.
Thank you. That is a good point 😊
I would like to see you review the Linn Selekt DSM. And yes I know Linn is notorious for not giving review units away so you have to find a friendly dealer.
@@goodsound4756 I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Hi Tarun, Great review and you hit the needle on the head. DAC offerings within the same company are often very confusing. Gone are the days where dearer models simply had more buttons and more power. I am thinking of the receiver wars here. I would love to see you review some PS Audio products. In fact I told Paul already in his comment section to send you some stuff and got many positive replies on that. Lets hope he listens to me :)
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
Tarun, outstanding and comprehensive as usual! Seems a real checkmate from Aurelic with this set. Just wish it also had a digital out to try with other dacs - as per the Eversolo. Guessing this was to not compromise things? 🙏🏼👍🏼
Thank you kindly. This is a more purist unit than the DMP-A8 they included the features internally that improve sound quality but limited the external feature to meet a price 😊
This was a great review. Thank you. You always do a great job with all of your video reviews and provide much insight that appears to be backed up by a lot of research and listening. Thanks again and keep up the great work.
Thank you. This is greatly appreciated 😊👍
Review hint: LAiV
Thx 😊
Thanks for this awareness! 👍🏼
I would love to see you review a Volumio Rivo Streamer running thru your Venus!
Thank you 😊
Always a pleasure to sit down and listen to your reviews which many viewers have commented are the best in the business. the comparisons are all important when trying to assess it's performance on a objective level. I know you don't have the Merason Frerot Dac/power combo to hand to make an accurate comparison but seeing as they are around the same cost which did you prefer?
Thank you James. The Vega S1 has more resolution and a deeper soundstage than the Merason Frerot + PSU 😊👍
I would buy if it had android support. Looks really nice. Thanks for the review.
Thank you 😊
Wow Tarun, that's fast! Just this week I asked you for this review and there it is! Thank you.
And I can say, your opinion is a big push for me in purchasing this streamer/dac.
Time to leave the old Bluesound Node trail 😊
Best regards, Jos (NL)
Thank you Jos. I hope you enjoyed the review 😊
putting those buttons on top strikes me as a smart design choice, I think most of these units will be placed on waist-high furniture -- nice discussion, cheers
Thx 😊
Hi Tarun, Would you say that the combination of Auralic Vega S1 and PSU is as good as your streamer and Denafrips Venus 2 DAC. I am wanting to buy the Vega S1 and PSU blindly?
@@richarddegannes2928 it has a direct sonic presentation but it is almost as good. The comparison was covered in this review 😊
I was considering purchasing the Auralic Vega S1, but after reading your review and noting the potential synchronization issues, I have hesitated.
Could you please let me know the brand and model of the TV you used during your testing?
Understanding this would be very helpful for me as I aim to avoid similar issues in my own setup.
@@nateriver1112 it is a Sony Bravia WE 7000 series if memory serves 😊
i love your comment @11:40 about parametric EQ introduces issues…I’ve noticed that so I prefer real tone controls (bass/treble) on my Parasound 2100 preamp.
source=Apple Music lossless
Thank you 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314
Hi,
It would be cool if you could compare the new Laiv Harmony to the Denafrips and Holo; then recommend which one sounds best for female vocalists/jazz.
I have the Denafrips Pontus II 12th-1 + Denafrips Iris 12th
Apple Music lossless
Love your reviews Tarun. You keep it positive, but it’s always clear what you think about the equipment tested. I think this could be the perfect streamer/ dac for my system. I now have a Ultrarendu > Denafrips Iris DDC > Denafrips Pontus II. Do you think it will perform similar or will I be disappointed?
Thank you. Much appreciated. I suspect you current setup will be close to the Vega S1 in quality but a different presentation 😊👍
Thank you so much for answering my question!
Went with the Eversolo 8 mainly for the PEQ in the DSP. I learn later the Auralic also has that. I would have preferred the better internals of the Auralic as the Eversolo outputs some earth noise. Too late now but in future I will consider the Auralic.
@@aussie8114 thx for sharing 😊
I'd like to see you review a high end streamer like the Naim ND555.
I appreciate the suggestion 😊
Hi Tarun. Hans Beekhuyzen just posted a review of the Aries S1 and mentioned DIRAC integration was coming in the future. Have you heard anything about DIRAC for the Vega S1?
It is coming with the Version 10.0 software. Should be anything time 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 Actually, Auralic could not squeeze (technical issues) Dirac in that release as per the Auralic team member. They gave an estimate of 2 more months.
Got a new target. Thx. Will have to think (a lot) between aries and Vega.
Cool 😎
Danke!
Danke Schon 👍
People, keep insists on hardware streamer 7:05 improvements to archive better quality streaming; and on my opinion it’s a great waste of money and time. Better understanding the decoder, will prove very clear my point. Streaming is 75% decoding software plus good PSU for the hardware. I feel really bad about the situation and the fever about the product. Let’s be clear…
What a great way to start the day. 😊
Much appreciated 😊👍
Cheers Tarun great review as usual. For the next review question what about a Lyngdorf device? I have the 1120 as the room correction makes near field listening with subs in a small office possible
I have the 1120, and also the custard r26 and u18 PSU. I don't suppose anyone could give me an estimation of quality between them?
(I've not set these up, so no point of reference -- old stuff I was using was arcam avr390, and a Cambridge audio 851N)
Speakers currently PMC fb1s (wanting to upgrade those too, but not sure what to!)
Thx 😊
WIll this be better than RME ADE 2 Pro... paired with Limetree Lindemann and MCRU PSU?
Great review Tarun. Just need to offload some gear before I can get one.
What about reviewing the WiiM Ultra? Lower end but ‘bang for buck’ should be huge. Thanks.
Interesting and informative as always Tarun. And "Who Drove the Red Sports Car". Some of that really old Van Morrison stuff was disturbing.
The way I listen to music is spinning silver discs, so I'd like to see reviews of CD transports. I'm sure that puts me in a tiny minority, but I'm kind of used to swimming against the tide.
there is a really bad ringing and weird noise in your video.. borderline pathetic for an audiophile.. you are awesome but you really need to fix this
Good Review... as usual. Thanks. Interesting for me would be to hear your thoughts abaout the Volumio Rivo, maybee with a good power supply.
Could you explain, please. manufacturer sells Aries streamer for 2k and has vega s1 for same 2k, that not only streamer but dac and preamp. As I understand they have same streamer platform and processor inside . Same power board, except several elements like caps and voltages. How could it be?
Tell us, please , what difference in streamer part of 2 models?
The Aries G1.1 uses the older Tesla G2 platform and has a lesser DAC than the new Vega S1 with the Tesla G3 streamer and Fusion DAC 😊
@@abritishaudiophile7314 but I mean new Aries s1
Are they same as streamer? And what dac and orfeo preamp for free?
And Aries 1.1 has no dac.
@@abritishaudiophile7314
We got to move these regenerators
Preamp for nothing and dac for free ,😏
I asked about Aries s1 🙃
For real are you telling me this product has lip sync issues? That's a instant no buy if so...
Play youre own files and cd ..saves a lot of money and sounds much better 😊
Are you sure?
😂I buy cds from Japan 🇯🇵 I have tidal and use the dac in my cd player to stream. I'm old I still don't think streaming sounds better than a good cd player.
@@abritishaudiophile7314 In my case yes...compressed internet music against a cd rip wave file or a cd player ...its obvious
@@abritishaudiophile7314 offcourse
@@abritishaudiophile7314 offcourse
I feel it's your best video. Congrats!
Thank you. Much appreciated 😊👍
hi just would like to ask wich combo has more scale and authority (Auralic Vega S1 & PSU or Venus & aries)?
and dacs would be intresting to see in review :
HOLO AUDIO cayan 2,
smsl su 10
thanks
Thank you. The Aries/Venus has more scale and authority 😊
To use with a videoprojector including a video streamer (so no need of a blu-ray), would the optical cable be as good as the earc connexion with an eversolo dmp8 ? As I’d love to choose the auralic vega s1 as a source for my primaluna evo300 and my yamaha soavo 1 speakers, instead of the eversolo. Could you give me some advice ? Thanks,
You can’t use the Vega S1 with video sources due to latency caused but the way that it buffers information. This affects the optical input too. If it has HDMI eARC like the Altair G2.2, that would resolve the issue. HDMI eARC uses as independent digital interface on the that device 😊
Only IOS is a no go with other options
Understood 😊
Hi Tarun, thanks for the review,. I was wondering if the Vega S1 would work with an Innuos Zen Mini and Dynaudio active speakers as a complete system?
It would be worth trying out 😊
I'm disappointed because it appears the unit won't really have Dirac, it will just be more of a Dirac "facilitator". It doesn't have any sub outs. I love Dirac for the low end corrections. I guess it's still the Nad M66 for me. Thanks for the review as always.
Thank you for sharing 😊
Tarun, I've seen three absolute rave reviews so far for the LAIV Harmony DAC. Would like to get your opinion too. Thanks
Thank you 😊
Great review.
But I have one question about upsampling. Can S1 upsample to DSD 256 or higher from any digital source or can only upsample PCM up and how high it can upsample those digital signals.
Thanks for explanation.
I would need to check but I don’t think it upsamples DSD 😊
When you talk about the touch screen… who really walk to the sound system to play with it if you have a app or a remote? Just don’t get it! Would like a bigger screen to see it from my sit …
Understood but I don’t always have my iPad handy 😊
Previous Auralic Vega DACs have not had any server function (unlike the Altairs), is that still the case with the Vega S1? Because the HDD port would indicate that there is a server built in.
You can connect to external hard drives 😊
Nice review, thank you. Why not review also the Cambridge MXN10? different price point I know
Thank you 😊
How does it compare to Holo Spring 3? For pure DAC, which one sounds better? Thanks
It has been a long time since I reviewed the Spring 3. It may be too close without an AB comparison 😊
Not a single apple device in my house, so I went from "looks interesting" to "whatever" in five seconds flat.
Understood 😊
Hi Tarun,I would like to known your opinion of Quad Vena 2 Play or Artera 2 Play.Thanks and cheers from Argentina
I have only heard them briefly 😊