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Issue with Graininess from my Aurender N100H

I've been using an Aurender N100H for the past 3 months for digital streaming (TIdal HiFi) and my digital library (AIFF, ALAC, Hi-Res files on the internal SSD drive).  Overall, the sound is outstanding with good soundstage, serious detail, rich timbre, etc.  However, much of the music has a "coating" of graininess or static.  When the system is not playing a track it is silent, but during songs, especially, quieter passages, the static is more pronounced.  It happens on both the internal drive tracks and streaming via ethernet.  It seems to be more pronounced while listening to horns - alto and tenor sax and trumpets.

I have tweaked the system by switching out the stock power cable with a Shunyata cable plugged directly into the wall versus the Venom.  I have run the Curious USB cable directly to my Multi-bit Gumby and also through an ISO Regen with an Ultracap LPS-1.  I just picked up a Schiit Eitr SP/DIF converter and have a Kimbler D-60 going to the optical.  In each case, I get the same graininess.

Anyone have a similar issue.  Remedies?  Thanks.
128x128pg62
jond's avatar
jond
5,660 posts
 
Do you have another source to make sure the issue is not the Aurender? Perhaps it could a noise issue be further down the chain, any tubes anywhere?
stereo5's avatar
stereo5
6,254 posts
 
When I had an Aurender N100H, I heard the same grain and static.  I switched to a Sony music server and have never been happier.
pg62's avatar
pg62 OP
31 posts
 
Interesting, stereo5.  You and I may be the only ones with Aurender issues as most users seem satisfied with the sound.  Jon, I play vinyl on my system and it sounds perfect.  It is definitely isolated to the digital signal and it didn't do it when I had a W4S modded Sonos connect in the signal path or a Marantz CD player.  My records through a Music Hall 5.1 sound fine.  It is definitely an issue with the Aurender.
jond's avatar
jond
5,660 posts
 
Understood guys and what an odd problem for a streaming device. Has either of you contacted Aurender? Self noise in a component like that should be way below the threshold of the rest of your systems.
hgeifman
2,110 posts
 
Based on your description, it seems the graininess and static is only on streaming digital  My suggestions are:

I suggest you turn your router and modem off for 2 minutes by removing their plugs from the wall.  Remove the battery, if any, from these devices.

I suggest you call Aurender Customer Support and ask their advise.   My Aurender N10 has no graininess, and, it seems, many other do not either.  Your unit might have a problem.

Is it possible to return the unit to your retailer and have them test it in their system?   As JOND suggested above, can you try another digital source to see what happens. 

Is your router and modem working okay?  My Linksys router was dropping packets and this was messing up the signal.   I doubt this is the issue but it is worth a try.

JOND above suggested your check your other down stream components.  As I understand it, your CD's play okay so this means there is a problem in the digital area.

My best guess is there might be an issue with your Aurender that needs repair.   Did you buy it new or used?   I still think your best option is to return it to your retailer for his testing and also call Aurender Customer Support for help.  Please keep us posted.


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