Auralic VEGA S1 Streaming DAC

Auralic VEGA S1 Streaming DAC

S1 is the latest entry-level audio streamer that AURALiC offers. Powered by AURALiC’s cutting-edge Tesla G3 streaming platform, the S1 inherits premium audio technologies from the acclaimed G2.2 reference products, including Direct Memory Access (DMA), Direct Data Recording (DDR), Fusion DAC, Galvanic Isolation, and more. Available in two variations, the ARIES S1 features USB and digital outputs, while the VEGA S1 offers XLR and RCA analog outputs. Both models support seamless streaming via Ethernet through AURALiC’s Lightning DS, AirPlay 2, TIDAL Connect, Spotify Connect, Internet Radio, and a range of digital input channels. Additionally, the S1 will be Roon Ready upon completion of Roon certification. For enthusiasts who are dedicated to elevating audio performance to the next level, AURALiC presents the optional S1 Purer-Power External Power Supply Unit . This unit is designed to further enhance sound quality, offering an unparalleled audio experience for those who demand the utmost in performance and fidelity.

VEGA S1

The VEGA S1 represents the pinnacle of AURALiC's state-of-the-art DAC technology, showcasing excellence in both hardware and software realms. At its core lies AURALiC's proprietary Fusion DAC, a groundbreaking innovation that seamlessly integrates the finest elements of discrete ladder and Delta-Sigma DAC designs. In addition to this advanced DAC technology, the VEGA S1 incorporates Analog Volume Control and Analog Preamplifier features derived from the acclaimed VEGA G2.2, ensuring a listening experience characterized by unmatched detail and precision. Breaking new ground, AURALiC introduces two pioneering technologies in the VEGA S1: PureDAC mode and Tone Mode adjustment. PureDAC mode empowers the VEGA S1 to disable all streaming and network-related functions, dedicating all resources to digital signal processing and conversion tasks. In this mode, the VEGA S1 utilizes Direct Data Recording technology to store music signals from any digital or USB input in the past hour to Tesla G3’s system memory, allowing users to replay music from any point at any time. Furthermore, the Tone Mode adjustment refines the output sound character of the DAC by incorporating harmonic elements into the music signal, based on a model rooted in auditory psychology. This innovative feature enhances the listening experience, elevating the VEGA S1 to new heights of audio excellence and musical enjoyment.

• Tesla G3 streaming platform: Tesla G3 is based on a quad-core 64-bit architecture and is equipped with 4 GB DDR4 system memory. This enables Tesla G3 to handle even the most demanding processing tasks with ease. The Tesla G3 platform also uses DMA (Direct Memory Access) technology for the audio input and output channels, so that all audio-related hardware and software components can access the system memory directly. This significantly reduces latency and jitter.
• Fusion DAC: The DAC developed by AURALiC combines the advantages of discrete ladder and delta/sigma converters. AURALiC uses an industry reference DAC chip, but bypasses most of its functions such as PLL, digital filter and oversampling. Instead, AURALiC's own routines are used so that the DAC only handles the digital/analogue conversion at the end.
• ORFEO output stage: The ORFEO Class A output modules ensure that the balanced output can drive loads far below 600 ohms with minimal performance degradation.
  The user has the option to disable the preamplifier function via software and reduce the output level down to 2 V, allowing seamless integration with external preamplifiers. In addition, a home cinema bypass mode can be set for the analogue input channels, offering maximum flexibility for the audio setup.
• Passive volume control: VEGA S1 uses a resistor ladder volume control, which is recognised as one of the best solutions for adjusting the signal level. In contrast to digital volume control, this analogue volume control reduces both the signal level and the noise floor while preserving the dynamic range of the system.
  Utilising eight coil relays, this volume control system consumes no current and emits no EMI noise when inactive, ensuring noise and distortion free control. Current is only drawn from the system when the control is turned. Once set, the system remains electronically transparent, further enhancing the exceptional audio performance of the VEGA G2.2.
• Tone Mode: Psychoacoustic modelling is used to add targeted harmonic elements to the signal, resulting in a more pleasing music reproduction.
• PureDAC mode and Direct Data Recording: In PureDAC mode, all streaming and network functions are switched off and all resources are allocated to processing and D/A conversion. Direct Data Recording is also used in this mode. All music signals from the last hour are stored in the system memory. The user can thus call up everything that has been played retrospectively and play it back at any time.
• Dirac Live: Dirac Live is a software that transforms the listening experience by improving sound quality. The algorithms perform precise measurements and improve the sound of the speakers by optimising them for your listening room.