Aurender N100H Review

**Mike** · September 29, 2015, 08:06 AM

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/20...reamer-review/

Congrats to Aurender on earning the "Knockout" Award.

**CDLehner** · September 29, 2015, 02:06 PM

Wow; strong! I haven't finished it...but the first half reads to me like "no matter how much you trick it out, at what (even greater) cost; the N100H smashes a Mac Mini based player".

That should open, a LOT of eyes...and wallets

**Kuoppis** · September 29, 2015, 04:11 PM

Originally Posted by Mike

http://www.digitalaudioreview.net/20...reamer-review/

Congrats to Aurender on earning the "Knockout" Award.

Thanks for sharing Mike, very happy about this one.

Background: Was just about to beef up my Mac Mini with the YFS kit, but last weekend I got fed up with the latest version of Audirvana+ having intermittent breaks and decided to look for something else. And just earlier today I bought the very Aurender you just shared the review of. Let's see how it sounds in my system.

**rbbert** · September 29, 2015, 04:56 PM

Mike, I notice you are not a dealer for Aurender?

**Mike** · September 29, 2015, 05:00 PM

Originally Posted by rbbert

Mike, I notice you are not a dealer for Aurender?

Huh? I am a dealer. In my signature "Aurender Reference Music Servers" and under Florida on the Aurender site here: http://www.aurender.com/page/dealer-audiophile

**rbbert** · September 29, 2015, 05:22 PM

Ah, my fault, I didn't look all the way through your non-alphabetical list

So which do you prefer, Aurender or Lumin?

**Mike** · September 29, 2015, 05:38 PM

Originally Posted by rbbert

Ah, my fault, I didn't look all the way through your non-alphabetical list

So which do you prefer, Aurender or Lumin?

You can't really compare. Lumin has a DAC, Aurender needs a DAC.

On another note, Mark (MDP) did a Lampi Balanced GG vs Lumin shootout. The result? He's keeping the Lumin. Both are excellent and as I said in my Lampi vs Lumin review, I think it all comes down to system synergy and music tastes.

**dlb2** · September 29, 2015, 06:16 PM

The Aurender seems like a nice simple product, just add a DAC and you're good to go. I think his comparison of the Mac Mini and all of its accoutrements is an apples to oranges one. I didn't really enjoy the review.

**rbbert** · September 29, 2015, 06:46 PM

Enjoyment (or not) of the review aside, why did you think it was an inappropriate comparison?

**CDLehner** · September 29, 2015, 08:30 PM

Originally Posted by dlb2

The Aurender seems like a nice simple product, just add a DAC and you're good to go. I think his comparison of the Mac Mini and all of its accoutrements is an apples to oranges one. I didn't really enjoy the review.

Originally Posted by rbbert

Enjoyment (or not) of the review aside, why did you think it was an inappropriate comparison?

I agree; I think it was the perfect comparison...because I think that's how most "new" computer audiophiles, get into it. A Mac Mini.

So the idea that, "oh...well that's only $500; and it sounds as good or better than a $2700 stand-alone unit"...doesn't hold weight. A...by the time you're done, you could well be at or above the cost of the stand-alone; and b...in this case, the Aurender smokes it (of course, in JDs opinion...which I happen to respect, when it comes to all things digital).

I mean, the guy didn't half-ass it; it sounds like he tried every permutation, of Mac Mini and add-on contraption...against a straight-up N100H, and the Aurender had it over the Mac.

Of course I'm a proud owner...so maybe I'm biased

**dlb2** · September 29, 2015, 08:46 PM

Originally Posted by rbbert

Enjoyment (or not) of the review aside, why did you think it was an inappropriate comparison?

I'm not in one camp or another. I had a Mac Mini set-up for many years and I really like the idea of having a simple digital package like the Aurender or something along the lines of a Lumin/Linn device. The Aurender only needs a DAC to complete it where the Mini needs many separate pieces. Each of these pieces affects the sound quality of the whole and each piece is subjective to each listener. I won't comment on the DAC used because each piece needs one. As for the Mini set-up, what type of cable will be used and to what extent are you willing to go to make it sound as good as it can? Will you use the internal HDD in the Mini or will you use an external one? Again, what you use will determine the sound quality. If an external HDD is used will it be a solid state drive or not, and what type of cable will connect the two? Will you use iTunes alone or with another program designed to work with it? If you use another program do you have it properly set-up. Programs like Pure Music or Audirvana Plus can be configured to produce many different outcomes of sound quality. Last but not least, unless I've missed something along the way, is the Mini itself properly set up to be the best possible music server it can be? There are many, many tweaks that can be done to the Mini alone which will affect the sound quality.

I'm not saying that one is better than the other or that one wasn't properly configured. The reviewer can write whatever kind of review he damn well pleases. Personally, I would have liked to hear how it sounded against something like a Lumin and how closely it can reproduce sound to a piece of gear that is more costly.

**CDLehner** · September 29, 2015, 09:07 PM

Originally Posted by dlb2

Personally, I would have liked to hear how it sounded against something like a Lumin and how closely it can reproduce sound to a piece of gear that is more costly.

Well...a reviewer only has so much space; and...so many devices on hand. And I agree with Mike, that Lumin and Aurender is an apples to oranges comparison. Even if a Lumin, sounded "better" than my N100H into my current Ayre QB-9 DSD; I still wouldn't want to tie myself, into a built-in DAC...like the Lumin has.

Some people...would prefer it, just for that reason; one less box, less to futz...and it might even sound "better". Different styles, for different 'philes

FWIW, my dealer says the N10 is selling like mad!

**dlb2** · September 29, 2015, 09:21 PM

Originally Posted by CDLehner

Well...a reviewer only has so much space; and...so many devices on hand. And I agree with Mike, that Lumin and Aurender is an apples to oranges comparison. Even if a Lumin, sounded "better" than my N100H into my current Ayre QB-9 DSD; I still wouldn't want to tie myself, into a built-in DAC...like the Lumin has.

Some people...would prefer it, just for that reason; one less box, less to futz...and it might even sound "better". Different styles, for different 'philes

FWIW, my dealer says the N10 is selling like mad!

I agree that the comparing the Aurender and the Lumin is apples to oranges. How is comparing the Aurender to a Mac Mini not apples to oranges as well?

**CDLehner** · September 29, 2015, 09:26 PM

Originally Posted by dlb2

I agree that the comparing the Aurender and the Lumin is apples to oranges. How is comparing the Aurender to a Mac Mini not apples to oranges as well?

Yeah, I get your point Doug. I guess you could say, they are similar...in that they are both just transports. But I think the point of the article...and maybe you're right; I don't like Apple, and maybe they were an easy target here...because a PC, is NOT made for playing music. But I think the point he was making is: "hey, establishment guys...taking this very popular route; here's an alternative. And...it may end up costing less, when all is said and done; and it sounds better to boot"

Again...admittedly; I'm happy to hear it, because I have one. So yay me, lol.

**dlb2** · September 29, 2015, 09:50 PM

Originally Posted by CDLehner

Yeah, I get your point Doug. I guess you could say, they are similar...in that they are both just transports. But I think the point of the article...and maybe you're right; I don't like Apple, and maybe they were an easy target here...because a PC, is NOT made for playing music. But I think the point he was making is: "hey, establishment guys...taking this very popular route; here's an alternative. And...it may end up costing less, when all is said and done; and it sounds better to boot"

Again...admittedly; I'm happy to hear it, because I have one. So yay me, lol.

I agree. I would love to hear one some day.

**rbbert** · September 29, 2015, 10:41 PM

Originally Posted by dlb2

...Personally, I would have liked to hear how it sounded against something like a Lumin and how closely it can reproduce sound to a piece of gear that is more costly.

Didn't he compare it to the Antipodes, and say that it was nearly as good at half (or less) of the price?

**bobwah** · September 30, 2015, 08:07 AM

He did compare to Antipodes. A bit too briefly for my liking ;D
I was hoping for a more thorough examination versus dedicated Music servers.
Mac comparisons don't really interest me when it comes to Music Servers.
Price difference is quite different in Aus also.

**Mike** · September 30, 2015, 08:09 AM

What software does Antipodes use and can it even begin to compare to Aurender's software?

**bobwah** · September 30, 2015, 08:49 AM

A lot would depend on if you need/want a cd ripper or not.
I yet to rip 80% of my cd collection thats the only reason I didn't pull the trigger on a n100h.
Ive got a Antipodes arriving tomorrow so ill find out what software it uses then.

**CDLehner** · September 30, 2015, 11:15 AM

I thought you could choose; like LMS is one (Logitech Media Server...so Squeezebox).

Ah, here it is...

The entire Antipodes server range run Squeezebox Server as part of the Vortebox install. That means you get to choose from a range of control methods: iPeng would be my pick for iOS and OrangeSqueeze for Android – but there are many others. Or you can use a web browser on any device

That's a real turn-off to me. To me...and I mean no offense; but it looks like an off-the-shelf build, with some tweaked software...using existing uPnP servers. And it's what; like 7k?

**fxe02** · September 30, 2015, 11:39 AM

so glad i listened to you and ordered one.!
LOVE IT.

**Mike** · September 30, 2015, 11:40 AM

Awesome!!

**Mike** · September 30, 2015, 11:40 AM

Originally Posted by CDLehner

I thought you could choose; like LMS is one (Logitech Media Server...so Squeezebox).

Ah, here it is...

The entire Antipodes server range run Squeezebox Server as part of the Vortebox install. That means you get to choose from a range of control methods: iPeng would be my pick for iOS and OrangeSqueeze for Android – but there are many others. Or you can use a web browser on any device

That's a real turn-off to me. To me...and I mean no offense; but it looks like an off-the-shelf build, with some tweaked software...using existing uPnP servers. And it's what; like 7k?

I agree! With these devices, the software is as important as the hardware!

**fxe02** · September 30, 2015, 06:52 PM

Darko loved the antpodes and so do i.I played with a prototype dx for a while.It was truly magnificent.I was concerned the aurender would be a let down.
When i ordered my aurender from Mike, i had Ken Lau make a custom deluxe linear power supply.It was plug and play and took the edge off the cymbals.Darko spoke of it in his review and i agree.
Then George Lindsey introduced me to his Q-Core platfrom to eliminate any micro vibration.You have to hear to believe it.
The results are very impressive.I have allot less money invested, and parts that will be able to be used , when arrender develops a better mouse trap.
Just my 2 cents.

**JGlacken** · October 3, 2015, 02:56 PM

Hi Folks,

New here, but just ordered Aurender N100H from Mike and am trying to do some advanced planning. Have about 1TB of music on Synology NAS. I understand I can just point the N100H at the NAS and play from there or I can move some of the music to the built in HDD. I think I read that someone thought it sounded better from the internal drive.
I have downloaded the manual, but it leaves something to be desired and doesn't seem to tell me enough. I was then thinking of using the NAS to back up the Aurender as my NAS backup drive just died. Synology NAS has two 2TB drives that seem to mirror each other. I have an older Mac mini that I bought from Mach2music with 8GB of Ram and use pure music 2 as of now. I have been very happy with Rob and his support, but felt it was time to have purpose built unit. I have also gotten the app on my iPad and am now anxious to move forward.
Can anyone offer some advice to get ready? Thanks.

**joeinid** · October 3, 2015, 03:29 PM

Welcome to the forum Jeff, thank you for joining.

**asiufy** · October 3, 2015, 05:46 PM

I'd just move everything to the Aurender, and use the NAS as a backup.
There might be software on the Synology that will do the backup bit automatically for you. I'm not familiar with Synologys, though, so can't help there, but QNAP is equivalent, and they do have backup apps that you can use/install.

**Morten** · October 4, 2015, 04:19 PM

Congratulation on your purchase, I would also move all to the Aurender, I also have a synology server. Having said that, I more or less only use Tidal it is really brillant

Kind regards Morten

**JGlacken** · October 4, 2015, 05:43 PM

Thank you guys. I can't wait for a new toy. And I think Tidal will have to be added. My wife likes Pandora for background music on our other systems, so I am sure she will like Tidal even more.

**JGlacken** · October 4, 2015, 05:52 PM

BTW, I am using a Kimber Cable for USB and have been happy with it. What is everybody liking these days for USB? I see many LH Lightspeed for sale on the 'gon. Wonder why?

**asiufy** · October 4, 2015, 06:05 PM

Kubala-Sosna just came out with USB and Ethernet cables, and that's what I've been using.

**JGlacken** · October 4, 2015, 07:05 PM

I have been using the Audioquest Cinnamon for ethernet-large improvement over regular cat 5

**CDLehner** · October 4, 2015, 08:24 PM

Darko is raving about this http://www.curiouscables.com/buy.html and I'm definitely curious (sorry...unavoidable really, lol).

**CDLehner** · October 4, 2015, 08:26 PM

Guys...is it just me; or does your "meter-display", just basically pin itself to the max...and occasionally jump-back, before re-pinning its needle?

I kept hoping, with every firmware upgrade...it would get corrected; but so far, that's my experience.

**CDLehner** · October 11, 2015, 10:44 AM

Originally Posted by CDLehner

Guys...is it just me; or does your "meter-display", just basically pin itself to the max...and occasionally jump-back, before re-pinning its needle?

I kept hoping, with every firmware upgrade...it would get corrected; but so far, that's my experience.

No? Just me huh??

**Mike** · October 11, 2015, 10:48 AM

Originally Posted by CDLehner

No? Just me huh??

Just you. Mine doesn't do that.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**CDLehner** · October 11, 2015, 10:55 AM

Originally Posted by Mike

Just you. Mine doesn't do that.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Hmm; guess I better ask support.

**JGlacken** · October 15, 2015, 04:09 PM

So my new baby is scheduled to arrive tomorrow and I am still wondering about moving the files. Am I correct that when using Pure Music on a mac mini and a NAS that the music files are on the NAS, but the info and artwork is on the Mac mini in iTunes? If this is correct, how does the aurender move all info together? I may be way off base here. Just don't want to screw it up upfront.

**Mike** · October 15, 2015, 04:28 PM

Originally Posted by JGlacken

So my new baby is scheduled to arrive tomorrow and I am still wondering about moving the files. Am I correct that when using Pure Music on a mac mini and a NAS that the music files are on the NAS, but the info and artwork is on the Mac mini in iTunes? If this is correct, how does the aurender move all info together? I may be way off base here. Just don't want to screw it up upfront.

Jeff - I could be wrong, but I think the artwork and info is contained in a meta tag with the file. So, it SHOULD all be on the NAS.

Mike

**JGlacken** · October 15, 2015, 05:10 PM

Thanks Mike, that would be great.

**CDLehner** · October 15, 2015, 07:19 PM

Originally Posted by JGlacken

So my new baby is scheduled to arrive tomorrow and I am still wondering about moving the files. Am I correct that when using Pure Music on a mac mini and a NAS that the music files are on the NAS, but the info and artwork is on the Mac mini in iTunes? If this is correct, how does the aurender move all info together? I may be way off base here. Just don't want to screw it up upfront.

Originally Posted by Mike

Jeff - I could be wrong, but I think the artwork and info is contained in a meta tag with the file. So, it SHOULD all be on the NAS.

Mike

Jeff, I'd be cautious about your expectations. I assume you ripped with iTunes, even though the stored files are on your NAS? Mike is right, of course; the meta-data...Artist, Album, Art, etc...is embedded in the file itself, during the rip (or sometimes after the rip).

However...I'd bet dollars to donuts, Apple's tagging from ripping in iTunes; is proprietary...just like everything else Apple does. In other words...the tagging, and meta-data, is only recognized by iTunes and iTune-simulating machines (like Pure Music...which if memory serves, is just an overlay to iTunes, yes).

Is that is the case; Aurender won't read it. I hope I'm wrong, and wish you luck; but you may need to re-tag, for your files to work with the N100H.

**JGlacken** · October 15, 2015, 08:14 PM

Thanks Chris. It would appear you are correct as I have searched for more info and found Chris from Computer Audiophile with an article that describes going from iTunes on mac to Aurender S10 or any Linux machine. Yikes!
Here is the link: http://www.computeraudiophile.com/co...-music-server/
oops, sorry, don't know how to add link here.

**Mike** · October 15, 2015, 08:16 PM

Uh oh...yeah, I use DBPowerAmp for ripping.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

**JGlacken** · October 15, 2015, 08:40 PM

ok, I have read through Chris C.'s article and now have a headache. And here I thought all week long as I was cleaning up my music library I was embedding the artwork. HA! LOL. Now to use finder and see if there are thumbnails next to music files.

**CDLehner** · October 15, 2015, 09:05 PM

Originally Posted by JGlacken

ok, I have read through Chris C.'s article and now have a headache. And here I thought all week long as I was cleaning up my music library I was embedding the artwork. HA! LOL. Now to use finder and see if there are thumbnails next to music files.

Jeff, I've never had to do it...because I wouldn't touch Mac with a 10-foot pole

But if Connaker's article doesn't cover it...do some Google-ing, for "mass tagging [format]" (whatever format your files are in; ALAC I'm guessing?)

I'm not saying it'll be a piece of cake; but I've heard there are programs, that can make much easier work of it.

**JGlacken** · October 15, 2015, 10:16 PM

Luckily many files are already flac and the rest are aiff.

**JGlacken** · October 17, 2015, 01:25 PM

OK, so I have set up Tidal which did not let me log in for quite a while. I like it, but doesn't have much content in Jazz section 180 albums and smooth Jazz seems limited. Early 90's stuff is what I like best.
Anyway, downloaded AMM after loading a few albums manually and seemed to have lost my server connection to my NAS. Updated DSM on Synology so they couldn't say that was the problem. Used to be
I could hit finder and click on disk station and away we go. Can't do that now and have to go into Finder-go-connect to server etc. So half way through AMM and they ask to add share and I pick Diskstation and
it tells me must be SMB, not afp. Now when I searched Synology website for help, they said I need to mount Diskstation with afp. BTW, using an iMac. Chris, it's not just Apple, Windows gave me lots of trouble
prior. Anway, any ideas about setting up AMM?

**JGlacken** · October 17, 2015, 01:32 PM

Well, I mounted the Diskstation with the smb://and the ip address and now it is scanning. We shall see???

BTW, where does it mention AMM anywhere in the quick start guide?

**CDLehner** · October 17, 2015, 01:40 PM

Originally Posted by JGlacken

OK, so I have set up Tidal which did not let me log in for quite a while. I like it, but doesn't have much content in Jazz section 180 albums and smooth Jazz seems limited. Early 90's stuff is what I like best.
Anyway, downloaded AMM after loading a few albums manually and seemed to have lost my server connection to my NAS. Updated DSM on Synology so they couldn't say that was the problem. Used to be
I could hit finder and click on disk station and away we go. Can't do that now and have to go into Finder-go-connect to server etc. So half way through AMM and they ask to add share and I pick Diskstation and
it tells me must be SMB, not afp. Now when I searched Synology website for help, they said I need to mount Diskstation with afp. BTW, using an iMac. Chris, it's not just Apple, Windows gave me lots of trouble
prior. Anway, any ideas about setting up AMM?

No Jeff, sorry. I have not had to deal with AMM at all...since I got the 100H; which I switched to, because I did have some trouble with AMM and the N100.

BTW...on the Jazz titles; are you sure you're not just looking in the Genre section; where it makes recommendations. I'd swear that they have more, than 180 Jazz titles. Give me one example, of an artist you were looking for and couldn't find?

**JGlacken** · October 17, 2015, 01:42 PM

Chris, you are probably right, that I was looking in Genre section only. Not up to speed on Tidal yet either.

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