Caching Music Server / Streamer / Player
Caching Music Server / Streamer / Player
MQA Full-Decode DAC and RCA Analog Outputs
Adaptive Storage Port Accepting SSD / HDD x 2 (user installed)
A200
The A200 is the entry point of the Aurender range of DAC equipped music servers / streamers. While the A200 is a budget-friendly model, it doesn’t scrimp on features, functionality or audio performance. This compact digital music player is packed with features including a high-performance digital-to-analog convertor with full-decode MQA* enabling it to take full advantage of the vast selection of MQA encoded music from the Tidal streaming service (subscription required) or from stored music files. It also has the capability to store a massive amount of content and playback files of virtually any resolution and bit-depth. Two rear panel ports can accommodate drives of up to 8TB each to store the largest of music libraries.
Browsing your music collection couldn’t be easier as our app, Aurender Conductor is simple and intuitive to operate. The A200 is a great choice for those replacing an aging CD player, computer audio system or just wanting the inherent simplicity of a one-box source component. Whether you stream, play hi-res files or both and seek a cost-effective option to do so, look no further than the A200.
A200 can function as a preamplifier and can be connected directly to a basic power amplifier or an active loudspeaker system for the utmost in simplicity. Volume can be adjusted from the Aurender Conductor app for iPad, iPhone or Android devices. If you already use a preamplifier, the variable output can be set to a fixed output level so control of volume is the connected preamplifiers job now. Additionally, the supplied machined aluminum IR remote control allows for adjustment of volume, mute, input / output select, play / pause and other essential functions without reliance upon your phone or tablet. The front panel also provides the ability to adjust volume, play / pause / skip track as well as select and start a created playlist.
For maximum flexibility, the A200 features both a coaxial (RCA) and optical digital input. These inputs allow other sources like a Blu-Ray / DVD player, CD Transport or cable box to be connected to the A200 and use its DAC to improve the audio fidelity. A USB output is also provided to send a digital signal to a different system or DAC.
The faceplate of the A200 features a 6.9” widescreen LCD display reproducing album artwork in vivid color. A second alpha-numeric display shows artist and album name as well as other indications of system status. The cover art and text are rendered large enough to be visible at a distance yet not enough to be a distraction.
The stereo version of the AKM4490 chipset is the basis of the DAC within the A200. Aurender engineers have designed circuit topologies around this chip achieving new levels of audio performance and fidelity. Fine-tuned and voiced for a sonic signature that’s resolved and not etched and smooth without sounding dark. The analog outputs of the A200 can reproduce PCM files up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512. In addition, high-resolution streaming can be realized using the A200’s MQA full-decode DAC for TIDAL’s MQA Masters content. The full decoder offers the highest possible sound quality the MQA process can deliver.
A high-precision clock generation system incorporating Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) is at the heart of the A200. With a sub 100fs jitter-reducing clock generator precisely timing the digital audio data transmission, jitter is brough to well below negligible levels.
The A200 is compatible with all the lossless and lossy file codecs which include DSD (DSF, DFF), WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, M4A, APE and MP3. The analog audio outputs can PCM formats up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD up to 256 so you can expect the highest audio performance
A full-linear power supply along with special shielding prevents noise from being delivered to sensitive DACs for the best sound reproduction. Three individual toroidal power transformers are used for the music server, digital circuitry and DAC.
The A200 provides two user accessible ports on its real panel that allow the user to install the type and capacity of hard drive that best meets their requirements. Most users opt for SSDs which are reliable, cost effective and are available in 1TB, 2TB, 4TB and 8TB capacity. With the dual trays it’s possible to fit the A200 with up to a mindboggling 16TB of SSD storage! If you’re a streaming enthusiast, then no drive(s) need to be fitted. But should your situation ever change you can install them at a later date and begin to collect and storing hi-res file-based content.
The internal hard drive you install provides for storage of your high-resolution files and a 240GB solid-state drive is used to cache music for playback. When the command to playback a song or album is initiated, the content moves from the storage drive to the caching drive for playback. When that selected song or album is cached to the solid-state drive, the hard drive will remain asleep. This minimizes wear and tear on the HDD. By caching songs to the solid-state drive for playback, electrical and acoustic noise resulting from spinning disks, moving heads and motors are also completely eliminated.
The Aurender Conductor App turns an iPad, iPhone or Android phone or tablet into a versatile user interface for any Aurender Music Server/Players. All functions, preferences and behaviors of the Aurender can be easily accessed and customized through the Settings menu. And the Aurender App comes with extensive features to make managing, viewing and playing your high-resolution music collection or streaming service a breeze.