Description
A15 Ultra High-Performance Analog Output Network Player is packed with a high-performance, dual-mono AKM4490 digital-to-analog convertor with MQA full-decoder technology and balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs.
As with all of Aurender’s “A” series, A15 is designed to take full advantage of the vast selection of MQA encoded music that is now available.
It also has two rear panel bays which can accommodate user-installable 2.5″ HDDs or SSDs of (up to 8TB each) to store the largest of music libraries.
A large full-colour front panel display shows album cover art along with artist name and song title on the “now playing” screen.
FEATURES
Dual-Mono MQA Full-Decoder DAC
At the heart of A15 is a dual-mono configuration of the renowned AKM4490 DAC chipset.
The DAC boards are supported by discrete linear power supplies for the best performance in channel separation, dynamics and noise floor reduction.
Aurender engineers have designed input/output circuit topologies around this chip, achieving new levels of audio performance and fidelity.
A15 is voiced for a sonic signature that’s resolved and smooth, without sounding etched or dark.
In addition to delivering the highest possible audio performance that the MQA process offers, A15’s built in DAC also decodes PCM files up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD up to DSD512.
FPGA-Based Precision Clock
A high-precision clock generation system incorporating Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) runs A15’s DAC section.
An extremely accurate sub 100fs clock generator precisely times the digital audio data transmission to reduce jitter well below negligible levels.
Linear Power Supply Designed to Keep the System Noise Level as Low as Possible
In sensitive digital source components, the power supply plays a critical role in the overall sonic presentation.
A15’s fully-linear power supply structure incorporates four audiophile-grade toroidal transformers, along with advanced shielding and isolation, to prevent noise from being introduced to the signal path at this stage.
Connectivity with Versatility
The A15 can function as a source or a preamplifier with volume control and digital source selection.
It can be connected directly to any power amplifier or an active loudspeaker system for the utmost simplicity.
Volume control, and other playback actions, can be adjusted from the Aurender Conductor app or included machined-aluminum IR remote control.
If you already use a preamplifier or integrated amp, the variable output can be set to “Direct Output” mode for a fixed output level with no volume attenuation.
The front panel buttons also provide an interface to adjust volume, play / pause / skip track, as well as select and start a created playlist.
Digital Inputs / Output
For maximum flexibility, the A15 features both a coaxial (RCA) and optical (TosLink) digital input.
These inputs allow other sources like a Blu-Ray / DVD player, CD Transport or TV to be connected to the A15 and utilize its DAC to improve the audio fidelity.
A USB audio output is also provided to send a digital signal to a second system or DAC.
Audio / Visual
The faceplate of the A15 features a 6.9” widescreen LCD display reproducing album artwork and “now playing” information with vivid color and clarity.
The cover art and text are rendered large enough to be visible from the listening position without being a distraction from the music.
Support for High-Resolution Streaming and File-Based Content
A15 supports all widely used file formats including: DSD (DSF, DFF), WAV, FLAC, AIFF, ALAC, M4A, APE and MP3.
With the capability of high resolution PCM up to 32bit/768kHz and DSD512, you can expect the highest audio performance from all formats and codecs.
Adaptive File Library Storage
A15 provides two user accessible storage bays on its rear panel for the user to install the type and capacity of hard drive that best meets their requirements.
Most users opt for SSDs which are reliable, efficient and silent but traditional HDD’s are also supported for a more economical approach.
With the dual storage trays, it’s possible to fit the A15 with up to a mind-boggling 16TB of storage! If you’re a streaming enthusiast, then no drive(s) need to be installed.
Should your situation ever change, you can always install storage at any time without the need for any tools or factory service.
Cache-based Playback
With Aurender, all playback occurs from an innovative internal solid state cache. As soon as any track, album, or playlist is added to the queue.
The content is immediately downloaded to the internal cache memory for playback.
By caching tracks to the solid state drive, electrical and acoustic noise generated from spinning disks, moving heads and motors are completely eliminated.
This technology results in lower demand on overall system resources and power supplies, less wear-and-tear on internal storage drives, increased reliability and most importantly, superior audio performance.
Aurender Conductor App: Packed with Convenient Features for Full-Function Control
The Aurender Conductor App turns any iPad, iPhone or Android phone or tablet into a versatile user interface for any Aurender Music Server.
All preferences, functions and behaviors of the Aurender can be easily accessed and customized through the Settings menu.
The Aurender App comes with extensive features to make managing, viewing and playing your high-resolution music library a breeze.
Remote Internet Technical Support
Sending a Remote Support Request through the Aurender Conductor App allows engineers to answer questions and remotely diagnose and fix any problems over the Internet.
A15 SPECIFICATIONS
| Analog Audio Output Supported Formats | PCM up to 32bit/768kHz, DSD up to 512 (DSD512 converted to PCM by FPGA) |
| Analog Audio Outputs | Balanced XLR, 4.0Vrms Output, Unbalanced RCA, 2.0Vrms Output |
| Control Software | Aurender Conductor for iPad, iPhone and Android |
| CPU | Intel Low Power Quad-Core |
| D/A Convertor | AKM4490 (dual-mono design), MQA Full-Decoder Certified |
| Digital Audio Outputs | USB Audio Class 2.0 x 1 |
| Dimensions & Weight | 16.9″ (W) x 3.8″ (H) x 14.0″ (D), 26.2 lbs, 430mm (W) x 96mm (H) x 355mm (D), 11.9 kg |
| Front Panel Display | 6.9” 1280 x 480 IPS Color LCD |
| Gigabit Ethernet | Double-Isolated x 1 |
| I/O Ports | 2 x USB 3.0 (rear) |
| IR Remote Control | Supplied |
| Main Clock | TCXO Based Precision Jitter Reducing Clock |
| Material | Machined Aluminum Chassis |
| Power Consumption | Play (29W), Peak (42W), Standby (7W) |
| Power Supply | Full-Linear |
| SPDIF Digital Inputs | Coaxial x 1, Optical x 1 |
| SSD for System and Cache | 240GB NVMe |
| Storage (optional-user installed) | 2 bays accommodating 2.5” HDDs or SSDs (15mm height max) |
| Streaming Support | Tidal, Qobuz, Spotify Connect and Internet Radio |
| System Memory | 8GB |
| UPS | Yes (Super Capacitor based) |
| USB Audio Output Supported Formats | PCM up to 32bit/768kHz, DSD: DoP up to 256, Native DSD up to 512 |
| Volume Control | Variable or Fixed Output |
Retail Price £9895
