AURALiC Vega S1 & Aries S1 Streamers – First Look

All Image Credit: AURALiC

AURALiC have just introduced the S1 series of audio streamers, the Tesla G3 streaming platform based ALTAIR G2.2 and the release of version 10.0 software featuring several new features.

The S1 is the latest entry-level audio streamer offered by AURALiC. Powered by their cutting-edge Tesla G3 streaming platform, the S1 inherits premium audio technologies from their G2.2 reference products, including Direct Memory Access (DMA), Direct Data Recording (DDR), Fusion DAC, Galvanic Isolation, and more.

ARIES S1 – Streaming Processor

The S1 is available in two versions; the Aries S1 streaming processor that features USB and digital outputs, and the Vega S1 streaming DAC that offers XLR and RCA analogue outputs. Both support streaming via Ethernet through AURALiC’s Lightning DS, AirPlay 2, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Internet Radio, and various digital inputs.

The S1 series is powered by AURALiC’s Tesla G3 streaming platform, that records the incoming data into the systems memory and transmits it to the various lower-level audio hardware. The dual 60fs Femto Clocks and Galvanic Isolation maintain low clock jitter, reducing electrical noise and signal distortion.

S1 Purer-Power External Power Supply Unit

The S1 series is slated to become Roon Ready once the certification has completed and may be upgraded using the optional S1 Purer-Power External Power Supply Unit.

Together with the various streaming options supported by the AURALiC’s proprietary Lightning DS software, the S1 series also provides several digital inputs to include; USB audio, Coaxial, and Toslink. Additionally, it can play music stored on a NAS drive, USB drive, or CD drive. Digital outputs for the Aries include; AES, Toslink and Coaxial.

VEGA S1 – Streaming DAC

For those looking for analog connectivity, the Vega S1 adds AURALiC’s proprietary Fusion DAC, integrating both discrete ladder and Delta-Sigma DAC designs, plus it includes; ‘Analog Volume Control’ and ‘Analog Preamplifier’ features derived from the high-end Vega G2.2.

The Vega S1 adds Tone Mode adjustment and also provides the user with a PureDAC mode that disables all streaming and network related functions. AURALiC tells us that in the PureDAC mode Direct Data Recording technology to store music signals from any digital or USB input in the past hour to the Tesla G3’s system memory, enabling you to replay music from any point at any time. While the Tone Mode “refines the output sound character of the DAC by incorporating harmonic elements into the music signal, based on a model rooted in auditory psychology.”

ALTAIR G2.2

This latest G2.2 version of the ALTAIR is also powered by the state-of-the-art Tesla G3 streaming platform but now includes; Direct Data Recording (DDR), Fusion DAC, and Galvanic Isolation. Digital input connectivity is further expanded with the addition of an HDMI eARC input providing seamless integration with a wide range of audio sources.

Lightning OS V10

Finally, AURALiC’s Lightning Streaming platform commemorates its 10th anniversary with the release of version 10.0 firmware. This latest update brings new features like PureDAC mode and Tone Mode to enhance sound sound quality. The Lightning OS V10 will be available through Over-The-Air updates for compatible products by the end of April.

MSRP:

For more information visit the AURALiC web site.

Related posts:

• PS Audio Ships AirLens Streamer
• PS Audio Announces MK2 DirectStream DAC
• Orchard Audio New PecanPi+ Streamer And DAC – First Look
• Yamaha MultiCast 200 Desktop Streamer – Quick Look
• DENAFRIPS ARCE Streamer – First Look
• HiFi Rose RS250A Streamer – Updated Product
• Bluesound 10th Anniversary Node X Premium Streamer – First Look
• For all streamer product posts click here