Aurender ACS 100 - Essential Server/Ripper

ACS100 – Content Server and CD Ripper for flexible system architectures

The ACS100 is designed as a functional extension within a digital audio system. It combines CD ripping, centralized data storage, and library management in a compact device – with a clear focus on structure, accessibility, and integration.

Unlike larger server solutions, the focus here is not on maximum sonic isolation of individual components, but rather on an efficient, practical addition to existing systems.

Concept: Central music management as an independent entity

The ACS100 takes over tasks that are often fragmented in many setups: archiving CDs, storing data, maintaining metadata, and making content available on the network.

This makes it the central source for a growing digital collection – regardless of whether a single system is operated or multiple listening zones are integrated into the network.

CD ripping with a focus on data integrity

The integrated optical drive (TEAC-based) uses an audio-optimized ripping engine. The goal is to extract CD data with the fewest possible errors and store it in lossless formats such as FLAC, WAV, or AIFF.

Automatically added metadata forms the basis for a structured library and can be manually refined if necessary.

For larger archives, it is possible to connect a compatible auto-loader to automate the digitization process.

Library management and metadata maintenance

A large music collection remains usable only if it is consistently maintained. The ACS100 provides a dedicated management environment for this purpose:

• Structuring and cataloging large datasets
• Processing and standardization of metadata
• Clear navigation via tablet-based control
• Uniform display across multiple playback systems

This transforms a data collection into a truly usable music library.

Storage: flexible and scalable

Unlike fixed-configuration systems, the ACS100 uses two freely configurable drive bays. It supports 2.5" HDDs or SSDs, allowing for individual customization of capacity and performance.

With up to 2 × 8 TB, this results in a maximum internal storage capacity of 16 TB – sufficient for extensive collections even in high resolution.

Central server function in the network

The ACS100 can act as a central music server within a network. Multiple compatible players can access the stored library simultaneously, creating a consistent data basis for different listening zones.

Especially in multiroom environments, this reduces system complexity and relieves the burden on individual playback devices.

Digital audio output

In addition to its server function, the ACS100 can also be used as a digital source. The USB output allows connection to external D/A converters or integrated streamers.

Unlike larger models, this interface is functionally designed and does not require additional signal processing measures – in accordance with its role as a utility component in the system.

Power supply and system design

The ACS100 uses an external switched-mode power supply, making it more compact and flexible in its application. This is complemented by an integrated supercapacitor backup power supply, which ensures a controlled system state in the event of a power outage and prevents data loss.

Area of application

The ACS100 is aimed at users who:

• want to expand an existing system to include CD ripping
• want to centralize and structure their music library
• Operating multiple systems on the network
• Want to configure storage flexibly

It functions less as a sound-shaping signal generator and more as a stable, specialized infrastructure component.

Technical data

Generally

• Device type: Content server / CD ripper / library manager
• Housing: CNC-machined aluminum
• Display: 4.0" IPC LCD
• Dimensions: 216 × 257 × 112 mm (approx. 99 mm without feet)
• Weight: 5 kg

System & Storage

• CPU: Intel Low Power Quad Core
• RAM: 8 GB
• System drive: 240 GB NVMe SSD
• Storage: 2 x 2.5" slots (freely configurable)
• Maximum capacity: up to 16 TB (2 × 8 TB)

Interfaces

• USB:
  • 1× USB 3.0 (Front)
  • 1× USB 3.0 (Rear)
  • 1× USB 2.0 (Rear)
• Network: Gigabit LAN (double isolated)
• Software: Aurender Conductor, ACS Manager

CD ripping

• Drive: Slot-loading (TEAC)
• Formats: FLAC, WAV, AIFF
• Error correction: integrated
• Autoloader: compatible (e.g. Nimbie)

Audio

• Digital output: USB
• Supported formats:
  • PCM up to 32-bit / 384 kHz
  • DSD128 (DoP), DSD512 (native)
• Clock: X-TAL
• MQA: Core decoder optional

power supply

• Power supply: external switching power supply (19 V DC)
• UPS: Integrated supercapacitors
• Power consumption:
  • Operating power: 16.5 W
  • Peak: 23.5 W
  • Standby: 6.5 W

The ACS100 fulfills a clearly defined task: managing, storing, and delivering digital music at a stable and traceable level. For many systems, it is not the central component, but rather the necessary foundation upon which everything else can be efficiently built.