In this Aurender A200 Music Server/Streamer/DAC review, we're diving deep into what could be the most compelling all-in-one digital audio solution in its class. As an audiophile seeking the perfect balance between functionality, sound quality, and value, you'll want to pay close attention to this remarkable piece of equipment.
First Impressions and Build Quality
The A200's machined aluminium chassis exudes premium craftsmanship. At 21.2 lbs (9.6kg), its substantial weight hints at the serious engineering within. The 6.9" widescreen LCD display is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, offering crisp album artwork display and system status information.
Technical Excellence
The heart of the A200 is its high-performance DAC, featuring the renowned AKM4490 chipset. This isn't just any implementation – it's been meticulously engineered for optimal performance, including full MQA decoding capabilities. The high-precision clock generation system with FPGA ensures impeccable timing, crucial for maintaining the integrity of digital signals.
Storage and Streaming Capabilities
With support for dual 8TB drives, the A200 can accommodate even the most extensive music libraries. The intelligent 240GB SSD caching system ensures smooth playback while minimising wear on the main drives. Streaming support includes Tidal, Qobuz, and Spotify Connect, making it a comprehensive digital hub.
User Experience
The Aurender Conductor app transforms your smart device into an intuitive control centre. Having spent considerable time with various streaming interfaces, I can attest that this is one of the most refined experiences available. The included machined aluminium IR remote adds a tactile element to basic control functions.
Sound Quality
The linear power supply and double-isolated gigabit ethernet connection contribute to an incredibly low noise floor. The result is a presentation that's both detailed and natural, with a soundstage that extends well beyond speaker boundaries. (For personalised insights about how this might pair with your system, our team at The Audio Tailor is just a call away at 1300 308 711.)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality
- Versatile storage options (up to 16TB total)
- Full MQA decoding
- Comprehensive streaming service support
- High-quality AKM4490 DAC implementation
- Intuitive control app
- Can function as a preamp
- SSD caching for optimal performance
Cons:
- May be overkill for casual listeners
- Premium pricing (though justified by features)
- Requires stable network connection for streaming
Setup and Integration
The A200 seamlessly integrates into existing systems, whether as a standalone unit connected directly to power amplifiers or as part of a more complex setup. For detailed setup assistance or system matching advice, don't hesitate to reach out to our team.
The Verdict: Digital Excellence Realised
The Aurender A200 represents a stunning achievement in digital audio. It's a product that doesn't just meet expectations – it exceeds them, offering a compelling combination of versatility, sound quality, and user experience. Whether you're upgrading from a basic streamer or looking to consolidate your digital audio setup, the A200 deserves serious consideration.
For personalised advice on how the A200 might integrate into your system, our team is always happy to help. Give us a call at 1300 308 711 or email us at sales@theaudiotailor.com.au to discuss your specific needs.
