DAC Suggestions for Aurender N100C

I recommend you audition the Ayre Codex DAC.  Its list price is $1,995.  AND, there are 2 listed for sale on Audiogon.  One Ayre Codex DAC is listed at $1,150 (8/10) and the other is $1,364 (9/10).  The Codex DAC supports USB and Toslink outputs only.  The Ayre Codex DAC is a great sounding DAC.        

Pg62

I have an Aurender N100 (not the C).  I would expect that the performance of the two units are similar despite mine being USB only.  I have compared the unit directly to the Bluesound Node 2 and Lumin U-1 - in both cases going into a good outboard DAC.  The Aurender bested them both.  The Aurender isn’t grainy to my ears though I expect going further up the food chain on a streamer would show deficiencies.  So, I’m guessing the issue in this case is with your Gumby.  The DAC I use is the one built into my NAD M12 Pre/DAC.  That’s not a good option for you unless you need a new preamp.  I here wonderful things about Schitt’s top end DAC. Is that within your budget?  If not, I’d bet you could find a used Rega DAC -R for a reasonable amount. It’s pretty smooth too.
Best,

I agree with hgeifman’s recommendation of the Ayre Codex.  I have used one for the past year with excellent results. Very smooth and revealing. Only replaced by moving up to the Ayre QX5/20. I will be listing my Codex soon.  

@mgrif104 I have compared the Aurender N100 to a Lumin U1 and the Lumin was superior. Perhaps you meant the Lumin U1MINI? If not perhaps you should upgrade your DAC or USB cable.