Here at Audio T Southampton we have long been admirers of AURALiC products. The latest to arrive is the Vega S1 Streaming DAC/Preamp with the optional S1 Purer Linear Power Supply. So without further ado, let’s dive in to see exactly what this product can do…

The Little Streamer That Could

The Auralic Vega S1 DAC has been crafted to deliver unparalleled sound quality within its price range. Drawing inspiration from the esteemed G2.2 reference products, these machines inherit premium audio technologies that claim to set new standards in the industry.

The AURALiC VEGA S1 Streaming DAC (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

When we first received this product, the initial thing that we all agreed on is that the size of the unit was rather surprising, being considerably smaller than other AURALiC units currently available. Another key feature that we really enjoyed was the high quality OLED display, which allowed us to see exactly what is being played from anywhere within the room.

Upon first listening to this delightful little product, we were pleasantly surprised to discover that it offers the same signature AURALiC sound but at a much lower price point. Supplying its listeners with a wide soundstage, crystal clear midrange and high notes, all with an uncompromising bass, we believe the Vega S1 truly outperforms other streaming preamplifiers in its price range, and possibly even some just above it also!

The Guts of the vega s1 (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

We had a little play around with a few options and decided to put it in a system comprising of the Chord Electronics Ttoby Power Amplifier, a pair of Harbeth P3ESR-XD with the matching Harbeth Nelson Bass Extender Stand Solution. This particular setup offers a neat yet powerful solution, with each component complementing the other perfectly to provide a rich and moving sound.

A beautiful sounding system at the front of our store!

Macro Technology in a Micro Device

Powered by the cutting-edge Tesla G3 streaming platform, the S1 series leverages AURALiC’s innovative Direct Memory Access (DMA) and Direct Data Recording (DDR) technologies; by seamlessly recording incoming audio data into the Tesla G3 system memory and transmitting it directly to the low-level audio hardware. With the inclusion of Dual 60fs Femto Clocks and Galvanic Isolation, the S1 series achieves an unprecedented level of noise reduction. The meticulous attention to detail in the S1 series ensures that clock jitter and signal distortion are minimised to an extraordinary degree. The result is a remarkably smooth and natural sound character that faithfully reproduces the nuances of the original audio, providing an immersive listening experience that captivates the senses.

The Vega S1 offers multiple input choices, enabling you to use your preferred music playback software effortlessly. It is 100% compatible with OpenHome based control software like BubbleUPnP and Linn Kazoo, as well as being a certified RoonReady endpoint for optimised performance within your Roon ecosystem.

AURALiC’s proprietary software, Lightning DS, is the ultimate control app designed exclusively for their streaming devices. Their user-friendly interface puts you in complete control. Browse and play your favorite tunes from various sources, including local files, streaming services, and internet radio, all with ease. Lightning DS's intuitive layout and efficient navigation make it a must-have for music lovers.

digital connection galore! (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

Master Conversion

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 Analogue Volume Control and Analogue Preamplifier features derived from the award winning Vega G2.2, ensuring a listening experience characterised by unique 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 utilises Direct Data Recording (DDR) 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.

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.

POWERRRRR!!

For those seeking an even higher level of audio quality, AURALiC offer an optional upgrade: the S1 External Purer-Power Supply Unit. This unit bypasses the internal power supply of the Aries S1 and Vega S1, doubling the power capacity for enhanced performance. Featuring two dedicated transformers and Purer-Power low noise power supply circuits, the upgraded unit ensures total galvanic isolation between the Tesla G3 processing circuit and audio circuits. This separation eliminates interference and minimises noise, resulting in superior sonic performance.

The AURALiC VEGA S1 and S1 Purer Power Supply (Photo Credit: AURALiC)

Our Word Against Theirs

So all in all, we believe that the Vega S1 and the S1 Purer-PSU are something truly impressive. But don’t just take our word for it, take a look at some of these excerpts from industry expert reviewers.

“The Vega S1 gets to the parts that other streamers fail” The Ear.

“Auralic are to be congratulated on what they have achieved with the Vega S1, it has been a long time since I heard a Vega G1 but can say with some confidence that this new Vega is in a different league. Not only does it have virtually all the features found in the Vega G2.2 but when combined with the S1 Purer-Power it approaches its sound quality too.” HI-FI Plus.

Final thoughts…

In conclusion, we are very much thrilled to have such a fantastic piece of kit in our line-up of streamers and sources. The combination of a small size, elegant and modern look, alongside sounding simply brilliant makes the Vega S1 a true contender for our favourite item to be released this year. Add the S1 Purer-PSU and you have an amazing sounding front end that will never leave you wanting. We can’t wait to see what the masterminds at AURALiC will be bringing out next.

If you are interested in listening to this fabulous little streamer, or indeed are interested in entering the realms of streaming in general, then don’t hesitate to get in contact with us and arrange a demonstration.

Tiago - Audio-T Southampton

If you have any questions about any of the equipment featured in this article, or any other Hi-Fi or home cinema enquiries, be sure to Contact Us.

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