Aurender A 30 - Reference Analog Musicserver

Aurender A30 – Network player with integrated reference DAC and CD ripping

The Aurender A30 combines streaming transport, D/A conversion, preamplifier, and music server in a single device. As Aurender's flagship analog network player, it is designed for systems where a complete digital source is desired without external components.

At its core is a dual-mono DAC architecture based on two AKM4497 converters. This configuration completely separates the signal processing of both channels and forms the basis for high channel separation, stable imaging, and precise dynamic reproduction. The A30 is therefore not intended as a convenience solution, but rather as an integrated alternative to separate high-end components.

DAC architecture and signal processing

Digital-to-analog conversion is performed entirely internally. The A30 supports all common high-resolution formats up to PCM 768 kHz / 32-bit and DSD512. Additionally, a full MQA decoder is integrated, allowing corresponding content to be fully decoded without external processing.

An FPGA-based clock system handles precise clock generation. The goal is the most accurate possible timing control of the data streams with minimal jitter. Optionally, upsampling to up to 705.6 / 768 kHz can be activated; alternatively, playback is bit-perfect without additional signal processing.

Analog section and preamplifier function

The A30 features balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) analog outputs. Volume control is lossless at the DAC level, allowing the device to be connected directly to a power amplifier. A separate preamplifier is not required in many setups.

This configuration is aimed at users who want to implement a reduced signal chain with as few transitions as possible.

Integrated headphone amplifier

In addition to its use as a speaker, the A30 is also designed as a standalone headphone unit. The dedicated headphone section features multiple connection formats and a separate amplifier stage.

This means the A30 can be used in both classic speaker systems and high-quality headphone operation without additional components.

Music server, CD ripping and library management

An integrated 10 TB drive offers ample capacity for extensive music libraries. CDs can be read directly via the built-in drive. The ripping software includes error correction and saves content as WAV, FLAC, or AIFF files.

For larger collections, a compatible autoloader can be used. Library management is handled via the Aurender Conductor app and the separate A30 Manager application, which provides features such as metadata editing, duplicate checking, and file management.

Power supply and system design

The power supply is based on a fully linear architecture with multiple separate transformers for the server, DAC, FPGA, and headphone amplifier. This separation serves to reduce interference between the individual functional areas.

An integrated supercapacitor-based UPS system protects the device in the event of a power outage and enables a controlled shutdown.

Display and operation

The 8.8-inch IPS display shows cover art, track information, and system status in high resolution. Operation is primarily via the Aurender Conductor app, supplemented by the A30 Manager software for advanced management functions.

Technical specifications – Aurender A30

System & Platform

• CPU: Intel Low Power Quad Core
• RAM: 8 GB
• System/Cache Storage: 480 GB NVMe SSD
• Internal storage: 10 TB HDD
• Network: Double-isolated Gigabit Ethernet connection
• Software: Aurender Conductor, A30 Manager
• USB: 2 × USB 3.0 (rear)

power supply

• Fully linear power supply with multiple separate sections
• Transformers for CPU, DAC (L/R), headphones and FPGA
• Supercapacitor UPS
• Power consumption:
  • Output: approx. 47 W
  • Peak: approx. 80 W
  • Standby: approx. 6 W

DAC & Signal Processing

• DAC: Dual-Mono AKM4497
• FPGA-based clock with very low jitter
• Upsampling optional up to 705.6 / 768 kHz
• MQA Full Decoder integrated

Analog outputs

• XLR (balanced)
• RCA (unbalanced)
• Variable output voltage (DAC-based volume control)

Digital interfaces

• USB audio output (dedicated)
• Digital inputs:
  • 1 × Coax RCA
  • 1 × Coax BNC
  • 2 × Optical (Toslink)

Headphone section

• 6.3 mm jack (unbalanced)
• 4-pin XLR (balanced)
• 4.4 mm Pentaconn (symmetrical)

Supported formats

• PCM: up to 768 kHz / 32 bit
• DSD: DSD512 native
• Formats: FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, APE, M4A, DSD (DSF, DFF)

CD Ripping

• Integrated slot-loading drive
• Formats: WAV, FLAC, AIFF
• Error correction integrated
• Support for automatic CD loader (optional)

Display & Housing

• 8.8" IPS color display (1920 × 480)
• CNC-milled aluminum housing
• Dimensions: 430 × 356 × 142 mm
• Weight: approx. 17 kg (37.5 lb)

Classification

The Aurender A30 is designed as an integrated solution for high-quality playback systems where multiple individual components are to be replaced by a single central unit. It combines streaming, D/A conversion, preamplification, and music management in a technically consistent system without compromising the fundamental requirements of signal quality and stability.