dCS Network Bridge or Auralic Aries G2 ?

[JemHadar]

I’m game for a wireless Roon Ready streamer with AES/EBU output.
Today only two streamers made the shortlist. In Belgium they are pretty much similar in price. Before making a choice I would love to learn from fellow members who have experience with one or both of these devices. Thank You.

[bart]

Jacques, I know you have the Roon Nucleus +.
You now prefer going wireless?

[JemHadar]

The Roon Nucleus+ runs the Roon Server software. It can also be used as a Roon Endpoint through the USB port, which I do in the big system downstairs.

However, for the Man Cave upstairs, I’m looking for a wireless Roon Endpoint. I brought the magnificent McIntosh MDA1000 DAC back into service. The MDA does not have an USB input, hence the need for an Endpoint with AES/EBU output.

The wireless Dynaudio Link (connected to MDA through optical), currently in use upstairs (Dynaudio Hub on the remaining Nucleus+ USB port) works fine in the Roon ecosystem. Although the sound quality of the Dynaudio Link is adequate for casual listening it is not the best. Also the Dynaudio Link has trouble locking on to the wireless stream, requiring a hard reboot by disconnecting the power supply...mildly annoying...so time for a new box.

The Roon Nucleus+ is still required as the brains...but the Dynaudio Link will be replaced at some point in time. Both the dCS and Auralic seem like fine choices to serve as wireless Roon Endpoint.

Testimonials, I have read thus far, rate both the Network Bridge and the Aries G2 as top in the same class...but there can only be one “King of the Hill” [emoji869][emoji41]

[1KW]

Originally Posted by Jem666

The Roon Nucleus+ runs the Roon Server software. It can also be used as a Roon Endpoint through the USB port, which I do in the big system downstairs.

However, for the Man Cave upstairs, I’m looking for a wireless Roon Endpoint. I brought the magnificent McIntosh MDA1000 DAC back into service. The MDA does not have an USB input, hence the need for an Endpoint with AES/EBU output.

The wireless Dynaudio Link (connected to MDA through optical), currently in use upstairs (Dynaudio Hub on the remaining Nucleus+ USB port) works fine in the Roon ecosystem. Although the sound quality of the Dynaudio Link is adequate for casual listening it is not the best. Also the Dynaudio Link has trouble locking on to the wireless stream, requiring a hard reboot by disconnecting the power supply...mildly annoying...so time for a new box.

The Roon Nucleus+ is still required as the brains...but the Dynaudio Link will be replaced at some point in time. Both the dCS and Auralic seem like fine choices to serve as wireless Roon Endpoint.

Testimonials, I have read thus far, rate both the Network Bridge and the Aries G2 as top in the same class...but there can only be one “King of the Hill” [emoji869][emoji41]

If you want a excellent wireless dac for your man cave with full MQA as a roon endpoint, buy a PS Audio Directstream DAC with the bridge II installed

[bart]

I heard both recently.
Not in a direct comparison, so I can't name a 'king".
What I liked about the Auralic was the screen that indicates the track you're playing.
Added value for me.

[JemHadar]

Originally Posted by bart

What I liked about the Auralic was the screen that indicates the track you're playing.
Added value for me.

Bart...I thought I wouldn't care whether there was a screen or not. Now I'm happy it is there. Indeed it adds value, especially the progess bar, of all things No need anymore to switch to the Roon app when one wants to check remaining time of the track playing. The cover art is a nice bonus.

[JemHadar]

I enquired about the wireless capabilities of the dCS Network Bridge on the dCS website. The next day I received a reply.



“At present, we are yet to implement the Wi-Fi feature on the Network Bridge.



It is something we will consider in the future, but it is very much dependent upon how much demand there is for this to be implemented.



If and when we were to implement this feature, it will be via the means of an internet software update - available to download from our Mosaic platform.”



I guess that makes the Auralic Aries G2 the wireless “King of the Hill” for now.

[ATC2]

Jem I just got my G1 yesterday, in many ways it is similar to the G2.
I was using a MacBook Air previous to this. All I can say is that I’m in streaming heaven, it has exceeded all my expectations. If you decide to go with Auralic I think you’ll be happy.

[JemHadar]

Originally Posted by ATC2

Jem I just got my G1 yesterday, in many ways it is similar to the G2.

I was using a MacBook Air previous to this. All I can say is that I’m in streaming heaven, it has exceeded all my expectations. If you decide to go with Auralic I think you’ll be happy.

Thx...good to hear. Enjoy the G1.

[Puma Cat]

You also might consider the Zen Innuous...